Drinking too much water? Do not overdo these healthy habits

Having a health and fitness plan is good. But at times, we unknowingly end up overdoing some habits in the hurry to achieve results. From working out rigorously to over-indulging in nuts, we tend to get carried away and end up harming our health. Here’s a list of healthy ­activities you may be ­overdoing: Water therapyDrinking water is good for you, but drinking water in excess actually harms your body. Too much water intake leads to dilution of your body fluids, which in turn brings down your sodium level. This causes cells to swell — resulting in loss of consciousness, seizures and coma. Check with an expert and drink water according to your activity level, diet and age, as each individual’s ­need varies. Going nuts for nutsNuts provide healthy fat to help fight high cholesterol levels and heart disease. But over-indulging in nuts can have adverse effects on your health. They are high in calorie count and can lead to weight gain. If your aim is to reduce weight, then consume them in moderation (5-6 everyday). Avoid nuts, ­especially if they are salted. Salted nuts can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Stretching is overratedDo you think that stretching before workout is beneficial? Think again before doing that, as it might lead to an injury. Stretching loosens the muscles and tendons, making them less ­powerful and more prone to injury. Static stretching, where limbs are extended and held in a ­position for a period of time, is harmful, as it puts ­pressure on the limbs and joints.Swearing by smoothiesSmoothies are only helpful if consumed in moderation, which means not more than a glass a day. Excess of smoothies can make one bloated and cause gastrointestinal ­problems, as one consumes too much fibre too quickly. Also don’t have too many smoothies if you want to lose weight. Go easy on your teethIn an effort to get those pearly white teeth, you might be damaging them by over-brushing. Excessive brushing may wear down the enamel on the teeth and damage and push back the gums, exposing the sensitive root area. The people most at risk for tooth or gum damage from over-brushing are those who are diligent about their oral care.Cleanliness freak It is good to protect yourself from germs by using hand sanitizers. But their regular use can make bacteria resistant to antibodies, making one prone to infections. Too much of ­sanitizer use can also damage the skin and make the hands rougher than ­normal and dry.Non-stop ­workoutIt is good to work out. However, doing it in excess will only result in muscle and tissue breakdown. Your body needs rest to recuperate. After very five days of workout, rest for two days. Excessive working out can also induce weakness and fatigue. Inputs by Preeti Seth, ­wellness expert and Tripti Tandon, nutritionist.