Athlete Hydration: Beyond Performance Toward Long-Term Health

), despite being exposed to recurrent and substantial fluid and electrolyte losses during training and competition. Although total body water may remain within normal ranges in these individuals, markers of renal concentrating stress suggest sustained activation of fluid-regulatory systems. Whether this physiological state poses long-term health risks for athletes remains unknown. This short communication argues that habitual LWI represents an underappreciated and potentially modifiable health risk in athletic populations. We highlight critical gaps in longitudinal and mechanistic research, calling for a paradigm shift in sports nutrition that recognizes total daily water intake as both a performance variable and a determinant of long-term health.