Key points
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Excessive water intake can lead to serious health risks, including death.
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Proper hydration is important, but moderation is key.
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Drink water based on thirst and avoid excessive amounts at one time.
Dr. Modupe Akinyinka, a medical doctor and nutritionist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), warned that excessive water intake can lead to serious health risks, including death.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), she emphasized that while water is essential for health, drinking too much at once can have dangerous effects.
Water intoxication: a rare but serious condition
Dr. Akinyinka explained that water intoxication is a rare but severe condition that can be fatal if not managed properly. She stressed that it’s crucial to consume water in moderation.
According to her, people should drink between two to three liters of water per day, spaced out evenly throughout the day to avoid overwhelming the body.
“Excessive water intake, especially over a short period of time, can cause water intoxication, which might result in death,” she said. “It’s hard to find someone who has drunk too much water to the point of death, but it’s possible.”
Signs of dehydration and overhydration
Dr. Akinyinka highlighted the importance of drinking enough water for kidney function and overall well-being. She suggested using urine color as a simple indicator of hydration levels.
“Light-colored urine means you’re getting enough water. Darker urine is a sign that your body needs more water,” she explained.
She also noted that dehydration can lead to faster health complications, underscoring the need for adequate hydration.
Water intake: balancing needs and environment
Dr. Moyosore Makinde, a consultant physician at LASUTH, added that the amount of water a person needs can vary depending on the weather and physical activity.
He pointed out that hot weather and strenuous labor increase water demand, while cold weather generally requires less intake.
“Drinking too much water without need can lead to hyponatremia, which dilutes the sodium in the body and causes swelling of the brain. This can lead to life-threatening conditions,” he said.
He recommended drinking two to three liters of water throughout the day, ensuring that the body’s needs are met without overdoing it.
