Health warnings issued regarding hydration and dietary habits in Taiwan

Medical experts in Taiwan are highlighting the health risks associated with improper dietary and hydration habits.

A man in his 50s with pre-existing diabetes and chronic kidney disease was hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and acute kidney injury. The cause was identified as a partially consumed bottled water left in a car for two days. Nephrologist Hung Yung-Tsiang noted that bacteria from the mouth can enter the bottle, and in high-temperature environments like a car, bacterial colonies can increase tens of thousands of times within 24 hours.

In a separate case, a 30-year-old man experienced fatty liver, elevated liver enzymes, and abnormal kidney function after consuming 2.5 liters of unsweetened soy milk daily for one month. While attempting to build muscle, the excessive intake led to a 3kg weight gain and bloating. Nutritionist Liu Yi-Li explained that while soy milk is healthy, consuming several liters daily without accounting for the caloric intake can lead to an energy surplus and metabolic issues.