Water is the elixir of life, but it presents a paradox: in excess, it can become a threat. A nephrologist explains this paradox, detailing how overconsumption of water can lead to a dangerous medical condition that turns this essential substance against the body.
The kidneys are the key to understanding this paradox. They are designed to maintain a delicate balance of fluids and electrolytes, a task that is supported by a moderate daily intake of about two to three liters of water.
When you drink an excessive amount, you upset this balance. The kidneys work feverishly to excrete the surplus, but this can lead to a dilution of the blood’s sodium concentration.
This is where the elixir becomes a threat. The resulting condition, hyponatremia, causes cells to swell with water. In the brain, this can be catastrophic, leading to severe neurological symptoms and a medical emergency.
To avoid this paradox, the solution is simple: moderation. Drink according to your body’s needs, guided by thirst. This ensures that water remains a life-sustaining elixir, not a threat to your health.