Dr. Tamara Hew-Butler: Hydration Myths Exposed: Are You Drinking Yourself Sick?

The Darin Olien Show

We all know hydration is essential, but are we really approaching it the right way? In this episode of Superlife, I sit down with Dr. Tamara Hew-Butler, a seasoned researcher in exercise science, to break down what hydration truly means—and why it’s not as simple as “eight glasses a day.”

Together, we dig into the science of cellular hydration, explore the myths around dehydration, and discuss why overhydration can be just as harmful as not drinking enough.

We talk about our body’s natural ability to regulate water intake, the rising cases of kidney disease in athletes and outdoor workers, and how environmental factors may be playing a role.

Dr. Tamara is an associate professor of exercise and sports science at Wayne State University, specializing in the physiology of hydration and electrolyte balance. Her research offers a fresh, science-backed perspective on hydration and health.

BREAKDOWN

We Also Discuss:

(00:00) Resilience and Health in Modern Society

(11:39) Water, Resilience, and Society

(27:04) Understanding Fluid Balance and Sodium Regulation

(34:35) Understanding Dehydration and Water Intake

(45:48) Water, Hydration, and Beverage Choices

(59:48) Environmental Toxins and Kidney Disease

(01:07:57) Water Perspectives in High Performance

And more!

LINKS

Find more from Darin:

Website: https://darinolien.com/

Instagram: @Darinolien

Book: darinolien.com/fatal-conveniences-book/

Down to Earth: darinolien.com/down-to-earth/

Find more from Dr. Tamara Hew-Butler

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hyponaqueen/

Don’t forget…

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