Water: A Hidden Health Issue for Athletes

Athletes often focus on staying hydrated to keep their performance up. They learn how much water to drink during long workouts and hot days, a practice that has helped many avoid cramps and maintain high energy levels.

But what about everyday habits? Many people, athletes included, do not meet the recommended daily intake. Studies show that up to 40 % of non‑athletes and a similar proportion of athletes fall short. About 58 % of athletes drink less than 35 ml per kilogram of body weight each day.

Even if total body water remains normal, these low drinkers exhibit signs of kidney stress: more concentrated urine and higher levels of the hormone arginine vasopressin. This pattern can strain kidneys, hormones, and metabolism.

Research in the general population links chronic low water intake to insulin resistance, mild inflammation, and a higher risk of long‑term diseases. It remains unclear whether the same risks apply to athletes who lose additional fluids through sweat.

Because long‑term effects are still unknown, it is crucial to look beyond short‑term performance. Athletes should view daily water consumption as a health issue, not just a training tool.

Scientists need more long‑term studies to determine whether low daily water intake causes health problems in athletes and experiments that explain how the body responds to chronic dehydration.

Shifting focus from purely performance to overall health can help athletes make better drinking choices, protecting kidneys and promoting long‑term wellness.