Nephrologist Debunks 8 Hydration Myths: Why 8 Glasses Daily Isn't For Everyone

• Dr Sridhar, a nephrologist at Manipal Hospitals, Vijayawada, debunks 8 common hydration myths, challenging the '8 glasses a day' rule.
• Excess water intake can dilute essential electrolytes like sodium, leading to conditions like hyponatremia, which affects nerve and muscle function.
• Overhydration strains kidneys, forcing them to work overtime and potentially disrupting mineral balance and stressing kidney function.
• Clear urine can indicate overhydration, while individual hydration needs vary based on factors like climate, diet, and physical activity.
• Smarter hydration involves drinking steadily, consuming water-rich foods, adjusting intake to lifestyle, and listening to the body's natural thirst cues.

Why It Matters: Individual hydration needs vary; excessive water intake can be harmful. Listen to your body's thirst.