Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Water?

Is There Such a Thing as Too Much Water?

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By Jennifer Gruenemay, ACE-Certified, LifeScript Staff Writer
Sunday, June 15, 2008

Is there such a thing as drinking too much water? Absolutely. Downing too much H2O at any one time, especially on race day, can wreak havoc on your electrolyte balance and put your life at serious risk. In fact, OD’ing on water has been known to be deadly, as in the case of one Boston Marathon runner who lost her life after drinking excessive amounts of water on race day. If you’re under the misconception that you can drink all your day’s water at once, you’re wrong – possibly dead wrong. Over-hydration, also known as water intoxication, causes the concentration of electrolytes in the body to sink dangerously low, which can lead to muscle spasms, heart beat irregularities and more. If you’re worried about dehydration, just don’t overdo it. Slowly increase your water intake each day and keep an eye on how much you’re drinking on both training days and race days. And don’t forget: If you’re going to be exercising for 90 minutes or more (or 60 minutes in hot weather), drink a sports drinks along with your regular water breaks to keep your electrolyte levels steady.