Did you know that drinking a lot of water can lead to intoxication?
Water is life, essential for survival, yet often taken for granted.
We are taught from an early age that staying hydrated is key to our well-being.
But did you know that excessive water intake can lead to a condition known as psychogenic polydipsia?
Richard Oduor, a distinguished professor of molecular biology, genetic engineering, drug discovery and forensic science, sheds light on this paradox.
As Registrar of Research Innovation and Outreach at Kenyatta University, his expertise spans the fields of genetic engineering and drug discovery.
In a thought-provoking twist, Oduor challenges our perception of water as a symbol of vitality.
“Even water, the essence of life, can lead to intoxication if consumed in excess,” he reveals.
“It is a stark reminder that every aspect of existence, no matter how fundamental, carries its own set of complexities,” he adds.
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The renowned agricultural biotechnology researcher also warns against over-consumption of water.
“Yes, excessive consumption of this vital component can lead to a condition known as psychogenic polydipsia,” warns Prof Oduor.
Psychogenic polydipsia is characterised by excessive fluid intake in the absence of physiological stimuli to drink.
It is often caused by psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, which are accompanied by the sensation of dry mouth.
“The condition is a drunkenness caused by drinking a lot of water. And it is the same water that we consider essential for life,” says Prof Oduor.
The scientist made the revelations in an exclusive interview with Nairobi News, referring to the controversial debate on genetically modified organism (GMO) products.
The circulation of GMO products has been temporarily halted by the court following a pending case after President William Ruto lifted a 10-year ban in 2022.
GMOs, which were introduced in Kenya more than two decades ago, involve the genetic modification of crop products through agricultural biotechnology.
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Prof Oduor urges Kenyans to embrace modern biotechnology, which promises to address the challenges of food insecurity facing the country.
“Genetic engineering has the power to redefine our understanding of life itself,” he asserts.
“By unlocking the secrets of the genome, we can manipulate it to achieve remarkable results.”
The genome is the blueprint for all living organisms.
Through genetic modification, scientists can overcome the limitations of natural breeding by transferring genes from different sources to enhance desirable traits.
“It’s a revolution in evolution,” he quips, emphasising the technology’s transformative potential.
Grateful for government support for research initiatives, Oduor stresses the importance of regulation in guiding technological advances.
“Every tool, no matter how gentle, carries inherent risks,” he acknowledges, adding, “Just as we regulate knives, we must also oversee genetic engineering to mitigate potential harm.”