Drinking water is a simple yet essential part of daily life, but both scientific research and Islamic teachings suggest that the way we drink water matters more than we might think. In Islam, drinking water while sitting is recommended as an act of following the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Health studies also reveal that sitting while drinking can have physical benefits, supporting digestion, joint health, and overall well-being. This article explores the reasons behind this practice from both Islamic and scientific perspectives, showing how faith and health are often beautifully aligned......Read Full Article>>

Islamic Etiquette on Drinking Water: The Wisdom of Sitting

In Islam, the Prophet Muhammad provided guidance on various aspects of life, including how to perform simple acts mindfully and respectfully. Drinking water is no exception. According to the Hadith (sayings of the Prophet), Muslims are encouraged to drink while sitting. This practice, known as sunnah, reflects the actions and teachings of the Prophet.

1. The Sunnah of Drinking While Sitting

The Prophet Muhammad advised his followers to sit while drinking, which is considered a sunnah or recommended practice in Islam. Anas ibn Malik reported that the Prophet said, “None of you should drink while standing; if anyone forgets, he should vomit” (Sahih Muslim 2026). Although this may sound strict, scholars agree that the guidance emphasizes the importance of drinking mindfully, honoring the body, and adhering to Islamic manners (adab).

Following the Prophet’s example, or sunnah is more than just a physical act. It is seen as a way to align everyday actions with the teachings of Islam, offering spiritual rewards and a greater sense of purpose in daily life.

2. Permissible Exceptions to Standing

While sitting is preferred, standing to drink water is not strictly forbidden (haram). There are occasions when the Prophet drank while standing, indicating that there are exceptions to the rule. For example, Ibn Abbas reported that the Prophet drank Zamzam water while standing (Sahih Bukhari 5617). Scholars interpret this to mean that while sitting is encouraged, standing is permissible in situations where sitting may be inconvenient or impractical. Islam encourages ease and flexibility, recognizing that rigid rules are not always practical in our daily lives.

3. Health Benefits in the Sitting

Some Islamic scholars believe there are practical health benefits to sitting while drinking, aside from the spiritual reward of following sunnah. Health studies support this view, showing that drinking in a relaxed, seated position can improve digestion, reduce strain on organs, and promote mindful hydration. Islamic teachings often include guidance that promotes physical and spiritual well-being, and this etiquette is no exception.

Scientific Perspective: Health Risks of Drinking Water While Standing

Modern health research adds a new layer of understanding to the Islamic recommendation of sitting while drinking. According to health experts, drinking water while standing can have negative effects on the body due to the stress it places on our tissues, organs, and fluid balance. Here are some of the key health reasons why standing to drink might not be the best approach:

1. Digestive Issues

One of the most immediate effects of drinking water while standing is its impact on digestion. When we drink standing up, water moves through the digestive tract more quickly and hits the stomach with greater force. This can lead to tension in the stomach muscles and disrupts the natural balance of fluids required for effective digestion. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, suggests that drinking in a relaxed state helps the body absorb and utilize fluids better. By contrast, drinking while standing can cause indigestion and even lead to toxin buildup over time.

2. Increased Risk of Joint Pain and Arthritis

Standing while drinking water can also have long-term effects on joint health. Rapid water intake while standing can disrupt the body’s fluid balance, sometimes leading to fluid accumulation in the joints. Over time, this may increase the risk of joint pain or arthritis, especially in those with a family history of joint issues. When fluid builds up in the joints, it can lead to inflammation and discomfort, a risk that can be reduced by sitting down and allowing water to flow through the system in a steady, controlled manner.

3. Respiratory and Cardiovascular Concerns

Drinking water while standing can also impact the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. In a standing position, water flows too quickly through the body, which may prevent essential nutrients and oxygen from being absorbed effectively. The liver and digestive system may also struggle to process nutrients at this rapid pace, leading to possible disruptions in oxygen levels. For proper hydration, a calm and seated position is advised, allowing water to circulate at a slower rate and giving the body time to process nutrients essential for lung and heart function.

4. Kidney Strain and Urinary Issues

The kidneys are most effective when the body is in a relaxed state, as this allows for better filtration of toxins. Drinking water while standing sends fluid through the body too quickly, sometimes reaching the bladder before the kidneys have fully filtered it. Over time, this can strain the kidneys and increase the risk of urinary tract issues as unfiltered water passes into the bladder. By sitting and drinking slowly, we allow the kidneys to filter impurities more thoroughly, promoting better urinary health and reducing strain on these essential organs.

The Right Way to Drink Water: Sit and Relax

To get the most out of each sip, experts recommend sitting down in a relaxed position with a straight back. This position encourages better posture and allows the digestive system to operate smoothly. Drinking slowly while seated helps ensure a controlled flow, allowing water to hydrate the body gradually and reach vital organs more effectively.

In Islamic teachings, sitting while drinking also fosters mindfulness and gratitude, which is a central principle in Islam. The simple act of sitting encourages a thoughtful approach to hydration, turning each sip into a moment of reflection and appreciation for the blessings of water.

Conclusion: How Faith and Science Align in Daily Practice

Both Islamic guidance and scientific research underscore the benefits of drinking water while sitting. In Islam, drinking while seated follows the sunnah of the Prophet, providing spiritual benefits and promoting mindful living. Health studies reveal that sitting while drinking also offers physical benefits, supporting digestion, joint health, and kidney function, while reducing the strain on various organs.

By embracing the simple yet profound habit of sitting while drinking, we can enhance our well-being and connect with a timeless wisdom that unites faith and health. Small habits can have significant impacts, and in this case, the choice to drink water while seated brings physical, spiritual, and mental rewards.

Health

The Cancer Sign That Can Occur When You’re Eating Food That Everyone Should Know

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1 hour ago

November 7, 2024

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The Cancer Sign That Can Occur When You’re Eating Food That Everyone Should Know

People are being urged to be vigilant for any warning signs of oesophageal cancer that can occur while eating. Oesophageal Awareness Month is marked during February in the UK. Each year, around 9,000 people across the country are affected by oesophageal cancer. The cancer can develop anywhere in the oesophagus, also known as the gullet or food pipe, which links your mouth to your stomach.......Read Full Article>>

The severity of oesophageal cancer can depend on its location, size, whether it has spread (metastasised), and your overall health. However, the exact cause of oesophageal cancer isn’t always clear, as anyone can develop it.

There are two primary types of oesophageal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma (which develops in the thin, flat cells lining the gullet) and adenocarcinoma (which originates from glandular cells and is often associated with Barrett’s oesophagus). There are also some less common types of oesophageal cancer, including neuroendocrine cancer, small cell cancer, and soft tissue sarcomas.

It’s crucial to be aware of the risk factors. To diagnose the cancer, the main tests include an endoscopy, which examines the lining of your oesophagus, stomach and duodenum, reports Gloucestershire Live.

Here are some of the red flag warning signs that can occur when eating, which could indicate symptoms of oesophageal cancer.

Symptoms of oesophageal cancer

MacMillan Cancer Support has highlighted that the most common symptom of oesophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing food. However, the charity also points out that some symptoms can mimic other common conditions.

Food coming back up before reaching the stomach (regurgitation), feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting)
Weight loss
Pain in the chest or back, or pain in the throat or chest when swallowing
Indigestion or heartburn that does not go away
A hoarse voice or a cough that does not go away.

If you’re struggling to swallow or are concerned about any other symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice promptly.

Risk factors

It’s important to note that being in a risk factor category doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop oesophageal cancer. Conversely, even without any risk factors, you could still be diagnosed with this type of cancer.

The NHS suggests that many cases of oesophageal cancer are linked to lifestyle choices, such as being overweight, smoking, or excessive alcohol consumption.

Other symptoms include:

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Barrett’s oesophagus
Being overweight
Oesophageal cancer is more common in men than in women
Most oesophageal cancers are diagnosed in people over the age of 40
Smoking
Drinking a lot of alcohol
Eating a diet that is high in fat and cholesterol
Previous treatment for cancer.

MacMillan also identifies two rare conditions, achalasia and tylosis, which can increase the likelihood of developing this cancer. To help reduce your risk of oesophageal cancer, the NHS advises losing weight if you’re overweight, allowing hot drinks to cool before consuming them, reducing alcohol intake, and quitting smoking.

Health

Stop Disposing Egg Shells You Can Eat Them To Prevent These Diseases

Published

1 hour ago

November 7, 2024

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Stop Disposing Egg Shells You Can Eat Them To Prevent These Diseases

The following diseases can be prevented by eating egg shells: Osteoporosis, characterized by weakened bones and an elevated risk of fractures, particularly affects post-menopausal women. The use of eggshell powder may prove more effective than calcium carbonate in reducing osteoporosis risk by enhancing bone density....Read Full Article>>

Inflammation of joints causing pain and stiffness, arthritis can be alleviated by the collagen-rich eggshell membrane. Found between the egg whites and shell, this membrane contributes to joint health, reducing pain and stiffness.

Calcium deficiency can impact myocardial contraction, leading to cardiovascular diseases. Consuming eggshells, rich in calcium, helps prevent these issues by supporting proper muscle function.

Eggshells provide ample calcium, effectively preventing the aforementioned health concerns.

To avoid bacterial contamination, such as salmonella, ensure eggs are boiled thoroughly before consuming the shell. Additionally, to prevent throat damage, refrain from swallowing large eggshell pieces; opt for smaller pieces or crush them into eggshell powder

Health

Signs You’re Eating Too Much Salt

Published

1 hour ago

November 7, 2024

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Salt is a seasoning that can flavor food and act as a preservative. It’s about 60% chloride and about 40% sodium. Nearly all unprocessed foods – think veggies, fruits, nuts, meats, whole grains, and dairy foods – are low in sodium....Read Full Article>>

The salt that we do eat helps relax and contract muscles, lends a hand with nerve impulses, and balances the minerals and water we take in Our body needs only a small amount of sodium. We should get about 1,500 milligrams of it every day. But the average American takes in about 3,400. Too much salt can lead to a stroke, heart disease, and high blood pressure. But how do you know if you take in too much salt

YOU’RE BLOATED

Bloating – when your stomach feels swollen or tight – is one of the most common short-term effects of having too much salt. It helps your body retain water, so extra fluid builds up. Foods don’t have to taste salty for them to be high in sodium. Sandwiches, pizza, bagels, and canned soup can be sneaky sources for salt.

YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE IS HIGH

There are lots of reasons you might have high blood pressure, but one could be too much sodium. The change in blood pressure happens through your kidneys. Too much salt makes it harder for them to get rid of fluid that you don’t need. As a result, your blood pressure goes up.

YOU’RE PUFFY

Swelling can be a sign of too much sodium in your body. Body parts like your face, hands, feet, and ankles are most likely to swell. If you’re more puffy than usual, take a look at how much salt you’re eating.

YOU’RE REALLY THIRSTY

If you’ve been really thirsty lately, it could be a sign that you’re eating too much salt. When that happens, you become dehydrated. Your body pulls water from your cells, and you might start to feel very thirsty. Drinking water can help neutralize that salt and can freshen up your cells.

YOU’VE GAINED WEIGHT

When you retain water, you might gain weight. If you’ve put on pounds quickly over a week or even a few days, it could be because you’re having too much salt. If you gain more than 2 pounds in a day or 4 pounds in a week, think back to the foods you ate during the past few days and try to make changes to cut down on the salt.

YOU USE THE RESTROOM A LOT

More salt could lead to more trips to the bathroom. This could be because salt can make you very thirsty, which might encourage you to drink more water. Later on, you might have to go to the bathroom more than usual.

YOU AREN’T SLEEPING WELL

If you eat too much salt before bed, it can lead to disturbances in your sleep. Signs can range from restless sleep, to waking up often at night, to not feeling rested in the morning.

YOU FEEL WEAK

When there’s too much salt in your blood, water gushes out of your cells to thin out the salt. The result? You might start to feel weaker than usual.

YOUR STOMACH BOTHERS YOU

If too much salt in your diet makes you dehydrated, your stomach will feel it. You might feel nauseated, or you might have diarrhea. If your stomach is upset or you have cramps, take a look at what you’ve been eating during the past few days and figure out how to cut back on the salt. Drinking plenty of water can help rehydrate your cells and get you feeling better.

LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF TOO MUCH SALT

Although there are lots of short-term effects to watch out for, there are also long-term effects of eating too much salt. It might raise your chances of things like enlarged heart muscle, headaches, heart failure, high blood pressure, kidney disease, kidney stones, osteoporosis, stomach cancer, and stroke.

HOW TO CUT DOWN

ON SALT

Since 9 out of 10 Americans get too much sodium, chances are, you might take in too much as well.

To help keep your levels in check: • Choose fresh meats instead of packaged ones • When you buy frozen vegetables, choose ones that are “fresh frozen” and stay away from ones with seasoning or sauces already added • Read labels and check the sodium content in the foods you buy • When choosing spices and seasonings, go for ones that do not list sodium on their labels • If you eat out, you can ask for your dish to be prepared without salt.