Tamara Hew-Butler, associate professor of Exercise and Sports Science, wrote an article for The Conversation. “Do you really need 8 glasses of water a day? An exercise scientist explains why your kidneys say ‘no’”
The Conversation, 4/21
Do you really need 8 glasses of water a day? An exercise scientist explains why your kidneys say ‘no’
By Tamara Hew-Butler
Tamara Hew-Butler, associate professor of exercise and sports science, wrote an article for The Conversation on the health risks associated with overhydration. “The warmer weather and longer days have inspired reminders to “stay hydrated” and drink eight glasses of water – or about two liters – a day. Not to burst anyone’s water bottle, but healthy people can actually die from drinking too much water. I am an exercise physiologist, and my research focuses on overhydration and how drinking too much water affects the body. Since water – and sodium – balance is essential to life, it is extremely rare for people to die from drinking too much – or too little – fluid. In most cases, your body’s finely tuned molecular processes are unconsciously taking care of you.”