Most of us take drinking water for granted. We pick up a glass when we’re thirsty, and let it go when we’re not. But the kidneys can’t tolerate such carelessness. These tiny organs cleanse the blood, remove toxins from the body, maintain electrolyte balance, and regulate fluid levels. When the body doesn’t get enough water, the kidneys have to work harder. This isn’t just a matter of fatigue; in the long run, it can increase the risk of kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and chronic kidney disease. Let’s find out what experts say about this and what precautions we need to take.
Many people believe that drinking tea, coffee, or juice throughout the day is enough. However, caffeine and sugary drinks can rapidly deplete the body of water. Another misconception is that you should only drink water when you’re thirsty. The truth is, by the time one feels thirsty, the body is already slightly dehydrated, and the pressure on the kidneys has increased. On the other hand, some people drink more water than necessary, thinking that more water is always beneficial. However, drinking three to four liters or more of water in a short period of time can be dangerous. This can cause blood sodium levels to drop, a condition called hyponatremia. In severe cases, it can lead to brain swelling, seizures, or even coma.
Urologist Dr. Ajay Agarwal told the media that the kidneys need a balanced amount of water. Too little or too much is harmful. Consistently drinking too little water can thicken urine, increasing the risk of stones and infection. For those with diabetes or heart disease, excessive fluid intake can put additional strain on the body.
Experts say the 8-glass rule doesn’t apply to everyone. Generally, women need about 2.2 liters and men need 3 liters of fluid, but this depends on weather, perspiration, exercise, and health status. Urine color is a good indicator; a pale yellow color indicates proper hydration, a very dark color indicates dehydration, and a very clear color may indicate overconsumption.