Overhydration 101: 6 Signs You're Drinking Too Much Water

A human body is made up of about 80% water. Every organ, cell, and tissue in your body uses it to function properly. This is why drinking an adequate amount of water is important. You must have read or heard about how one should drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water a day. However, in the pursuit of reaching the goal of drinking at least 3 litres of water a day, we often over consume water, without realising that even food contains water. 

This might result in overhydration. Overhydration can cause side effects, and while they are not severe, they can certainly be disruptive. 

Here are 6 signs indicating overhydration

1. Your urine colour is clear

One of the best ways to determine if you are drinking enough water is to monitor the colour of your urine. If it is dark yellow, then it is a bad sign, meaning that you are dehydrated. Ideally, your pee should be light yellow, that shows your hydration level is optimal. However, if your urine is transparent, it might mean you are overhydrated and need to manage your water intake.

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2. Frequent urination

Increased water intake can cause frequent urination, including at night time. Most people urinate between 6 to 8 times a day, but if you urinate over ten times a day, it could mean that you are drinking more water than your body needs.

3. You’re fatigued and tired

Drinking too much water leads to hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, and is a sign of overhydration.This can cause a dip in energy levels, drowsiness, and a constant feeling of fatigue and tiredness. 

4. Swollen feet, hands, or lips

Water helps in maintaining the body’s electrolyte balance. Electrolytes essentially help in keeping our energy level high. When you drink too much water, this balance fluctuates. Signs of you experiencing an electrolyte imbalance, may be in the form of hyponatremia, swelling in the hands, feet, or lips. 

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5. Lingering headaches and experiencing nausea

Overhydration can cause the sodium levels in your blood to drop, leading to a condition called hyponatremia. Its symptoms include throbbing headaches that may lead to brain impairment, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

6. Weak and shaky muscles

When electrolyte levels drop because of drinking too much water, your body balance goes for a toss. If you notice shaking, and pain in your arms and legs, unrelated to physical exhaustion, then it could be a sign of overhydration. Alos, low electrolyte levels in the body can cause muscle spasms and cramping.

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So ladies, while staying hydrated is important, we should nevertheless apply the age old wisdom of ‘anything in excess is bad’, even when it comes to water. 

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