Water is life, they say. But could drinking too much of it actually end your life? In a world obsessed with hydration—where influencers tote gallon-sized bottles and apps remind us to sip every 15 minutes—it is worth asking: Is there such a thing as too much water?

The short answer? Yes. The long answer? It depends.

Let’s start with the basics. The classic advice is to drink eight glasses a day, but this one-size-fits-all rule is about as reliable as an umbrella in a hurricane. Hydration needs vary based on body size, activity level, and whether you are sweating buckets in a hot yoga class or just binge-watching TV.

But more is not always better. In extreme cases, excessive water consumption can lead to water intoxication, also known as hyponatremia—a condition where the balance of sodium in your blood is diluted, causing cells to swell. Symptoms can range from mild confusion to life-threatening seizures. In the most tragic cases, people have died from simply drinking too much, too fast. (Yes, there is a too fast as well.)

So how much is too much? There is no single magic number, but most experts agree that guzzling over three to four litres in a short period (or more than ten litres per day) can push your body into dangerous territory. That is like drowning your kidneys in their own filtration system.

Does that mean you should be wary of hydration altogether? Absolutely not. But instead of mindlessly chugging, listen to your body. Thirst exists for a reason—it is your inbuilt water gauge. Urine colour is another handy indicator: Pale yellow? Great. Clear as glass? Ease up. Neon? Either you have had a vitamin overload or you are secretly a glow stick.

The key takeaway? Hydration is essential, but balance is everything. Drink when you are thirsty, don’t overdo it, and for the love of all things good, don’t force yourself into a “hydration challenge” unless you fancy a trip to A&E.

So yes, water is wonderful. Just remember—like all good things in life (chocolate, naps, reality TV)—it is best in moderation.

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