Medical professionals and health experts often advocate water as being one of the best things for our bodies.

We as a society are therefore regularly told to drink more water, but drinking too much could cause damage to the brain, an expert has warned.

Staying hydrated is essential for optimal health and several bodily functions, like supporting digestion, regulating body temperature, and facilitating nutrient transport.

Yet according to a health expert at The Mirror, drinking too much can lead to overhydration and occurs when we consume too much water.

Around eight glasses of water a day is recommended as a good starting point - however, it also depends on the environment, the amount of exercise done and health conditions such as pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Drinking too much water

Consuming too much water can create poisoning which affects brain function. This occurs when there is too much water in the cells which can result in them swelling.

It can put pressure on the brain causing confusion, drowsiness, and headaches, in turn causing hypertension caused by high blood pressure and bradycardia sparked by a low heart rate.

 When levels fall due to a high amount of water in the body, the cells swell - resulting in a risk of seizures, coma, or even death.

Signs of overhydration

Ensure you keep an eye on the colour of your urine. It ranges from pale yellow to tea-coloured, based on the levels of water in the body.

Clear urine is a sign you're drinking too much water over a short time. Going to the toilet more often than usual is another indicator, with the normal urination rate sitting between six to eight times a day.

Visiting the toilet 10 times a day is normal for those who regularly consume caffeine or alcohol.

How much water should you drink?

The amount of water your body needs is affected by exercise, climate, body weight and what sex you are.

Women between 19 and 30 should drink about 2.7 litres of water a day, while men require about 3.7 litres.

Using thirst levels as a benchmark may not work for athletes, older people, and pregnant women.