Marathon Runners Advised to Know Safe Drinking Limits While Running

JAKARTA — Maintaining adequate hydration is an important consideration for runners taking part in a marathon. However, drinking too much water during long-distance running can pose serious health risks, including exercise-associated hyponatraemia (EAH).

The condition occurs when the sodium level in the blood falls because of an imbalance between fluid intake, fluid loss and the body’s ability to eliminate excess water. If it is not recognised and treated appropriately, it can develop into a medical emergency.

“Excessive fluid consumption during prolonged physical activity can cause exercise-associated hyponatraemia. Runners therefore need to understand the risks of taking in too much fluid, or overhydration, and know how to maintain the body’s fluid balance while exercising,” said critical-care medicine consultant Dr Judhajit Sengupta, as quoted by Hindustan Times in late October.

What is exercise-associated hyponatraemia? It is a condition marked by a fall in blood sodium levels during or after prolonged physical activity.

Sodium is an important electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and supports normal bodily functions. When more water enters the body than is expelled, the concentration of sodium in the blood can fall.

“This condition is not only associated with drinking plain water; it can also occur even when someone consumes oral rehydration solutions or sports drinks, because both contain sodium at a lower concentration than that found in the blood,” Dr Sengupta said.