Can you overload your kidneys if you drink too much water, or is it filtering mostly a passive process?

Question

I always really liked drinking water. Not an insane amount, about 2 liters (100 fl oz) a day. So I always wondered whether I’m overworking my kidneys or if they are just passive filters benefiting from the water passing through.

In: 10

Answer 1

Deaths due to hydration imbalances during marathons are not from dehydration, but from over hydration. People are told they need to drink x ounces at each water station and so they do. They over hydrate , get hyponatremic, brain swells, and coma or death. Drink when you’re thirsty, listen to your body.