Water Intoxication

Can a person really drink too much water?

If you drink dirty water, the odds are you’ll get sick. However, other than contaminated water sources the average person doesn’t shy away from a tall cold glass of water. But did you know that a person can actually drink too much water?

In fact, too much water can actually lead to death in extreme cases. Yes, there are some dangers in drinking too much of a good thing. In simple terms, drinking too much water can cause your brain cells to swell and this can lead to nausea, vomiting, headache and depression. Extreme cases may result in cerebral edema, seizures, the onset of coma and, ultimately, death. It may sound strange, but drinking more than 3 liters of water in a sitting can result in serious trouble.

Some people are more at risk than others when it comes to water intoxication. Marathon runners who drink only water while competing are often at risk as their body’s sodium levels drop quite a bit when they sweat. If you’re dehydrated it’s okay to drink a little water, but not a lot. Drinking all of your water in one sitting isn’t the proper way to restore your fluid levels. The body can’t handle it, and it dilutes the salts inside your cells and interferes with their chemical functions.

Sports drinks and some types of enhanced waters, which contain electrolytes, are designed to prevent water intoxication and are definitely your best bet when attempting to rehydrate after intense physical activity. However, if you’re drinking enhanced water regularly, make sure you partake in moderation and make sure your diet includes enough electrolytes, especially salt, so that it doesn’t lead to water intoxication.

The recommended amount of sodium intake based on a 2,000-calorie diet is 2.5 grams every 24 hours. This is why you feel thirsty when the water levels in your blood are low. Naturally, you take a drink to rehydrate. However, when your blood sodium levels drop, it’s difficult to tell that your body needs sodium replenishment. If you suck back a couple of liters of water without putting any sodium back into your body, it could potentially be the last drink you take. So make sure if you’re drinking a lot of enhanced water that your brand contains the essential electrolytes. Also, take it easy when you drink water, and remember – moderation is the key.