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A 19-year-old member asked:

Can drinking too much water cause stunted growth because of flushing all the electrolytes out?

1 doctor answer2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Hunter Handsfield
Infectious Disease 55 years experience
Water balance: First, if kidney function is normal, excess water dosn't flush out electrolytes, Second, electrolyes and water balance have nothing to do with growth and cannot stunt it. Third, common internet-driven beliefs about drinking lots of water are nonsense. Except in very hot climates and/or intense exercise, there is no health benefit to drinking any more than to satisfy thirst.
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Last updated Feb 22, 2020

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