With an emphasis on hydration at every turn, it’s easy to believe that more water is always better. However, a nephrologist urges caution. It is entirely possible to drink too much water, a practice that can overwhelm your body’s systems and lead to a dangerous condition known as water intoxication.
Our kidneys are the gatekeepers of our body’s fluid balance. They require a steady supply of water to do their job, but they have their limits. For the average healthy adult, a daily intake of two to three liters of fluid from all sources is adequate to maintain optimal function.
Going significantly beyond this amount, especially for those with a sedentary lifestyle, offers no additional health benefits. Instead, it places a heavy load on the kidneys, forcing them to work harder and faster to excrete the excess. This can disrupt the body’s electrolyte balance.
The most serious risk is hyponatremia, where the blood’s sodium level becomes dangerously diluted. This can cause cells to swell, which is particularly hazardous for the brain. The resulting neurological symptoms can include confusion, seizures, and may require emergency medical treatment.
While endurance athletes and people exposed to extreme heat do need more water, they also need to be mindful of replacing electrolytes. For everyone else, the simplest rule is the best one: drink when you’re thirsty. Your body’s internal cues are the most reliable guide to proper hydration.
Water, Water Everywhere: But Are You Drinking Too Much?
