There are disadvantages to drinking too much water.
The average body is more than 50 percent water. A lack of water can lead to dehydration, which can put undue stress on normal body functions. Since fluids are released from our bodies daily, it is important that we replace these fluids. However, we must be careful not to over-hydrate. Over-hydration can cause hyponatremia. Drinking excessive amounts of water unnecessarily can create stress on both your heart and kidneys, and can even be fatal.
Low Blood Sodium
Consuming too much water can lower the sodium levels in your blood. Low sodium affects your electrolytes, which are responsible for sending signals to cells that control body functions. If sodium levels become too low, water can seep from your blood vessels into your cells, eventually reaching your brain and causing it to swell. This swelling can be fatal.
Kidney Damage
When you consume large amounts of water within a specified timeframe, your kidneys work overtime to release the fluid from your body. That extra work can cause excess wear in your kidneys, creating long-term problems. When your kidneys fail to flush an adequate amount of the excess water out of your system, you basically begin to drown.
Warning
The process of harming yourself from drinking too much water is a slow process with very few symptoms, unless you consume large amounts in a short period of time. If you feel the need to consume more than the recommended amount of fluids, consult a health professional before doing so.
Tags: much water, your kidneys, amounts water, body functions, consume large, consume large amounts, drinking much