Final answer:
The potentially dangerous dose of water generally begins at around 10 liters or more, consumed in a short period of time. This could lead to water intoxication due to the dilution of blood electrolytes. A typical increase in urine output can be expected about 30 minutes after drinking a large glass of water.
Step-by-step explanation:
To reach a potentially dangerous dose of water, it varies for each individual due to factors such as body size and kidney function. However, generally, consuming more than the kidneys can excrete, which is about 0.8 to 1.0 liters per hour, can lead to a condition called water intoxication or hyponatremia. The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine suggests an Adequate Intake (AI) for water for adult males at 3.7 liters and at 2.7 liters for adult females, including water from all dietary sources. Drinking significantly above this AI, especially over a short period, could lead to potential water intoxication. Based on average rates that kidneys can process water, potentially dangerous volumes of water typically start from around 10 liters or more within a short time frame.
Water intoxication occurs when there is a dilution of electrolytes in the blood, particularly sodium, causing cells to swell. Symptoms can include headache, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, even death. Therefore, it's essential to be mindful of water intake, especially during heavy exercise or extreme heat.
The typical increase in urine output after drinking a large glass of water occurs within about 30 minutes, as the kidneys work to regulate body water levels.