Water is undoubtedly the most essential element for our survival. Our body is majorly made up of water, and we use it for various functions, including digestion, blood circulation, and waste disposal. But, do you know how much water you should drink in a day to keep yourself hydrated and healthy? Experts have given a standard that we should follow, but there are certain factors that affect the amount of water intake we require.
What is the Recommended Daily Water Intake?
The recommended daily water intake for an adult is 8 glasses or 2 liters per day. However, this recommended daily water intake can vary depending upon age, gender, height, weight, activity level, and climate. For instance, pregnant women and nursing mothers need an additional 300-500 ml of water per day.
Factors Affecting Daily Water Intake
We lose water through sweating, urination, and breathing, and we need to replenish it by drinking fluids and eating foods like fruits and vegetables. But some additional factors can affect the amount of water we need to drink every day.
For instance, if you live in hot and humid temperatures, you will naturally sweat more, and hence, you would require more water to keep yourself hydrated. Similarly, if you are an athlete or do rigorous physical activity, you will lose more water and hence require more water intake.
If you are sick or have diarrhea, then your body loses more water and needs more than the daily recommended intake. On the other hand, if you are sitting at your desk job all day, you might not need as much water intake as someone who is out in the sun doing construction work.
Benefits of Drinking Enough Water
Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining good health. It helps in regulating body temperature, digestion, heart health, brain function, and other body functions. Drinking enough water also helps in keeping our skin healthy and glowing. It helps in flushing out toxins from the body, preventing kidney stones, constipation, and other digestive disorders.
How to Ensure You Drink Enough Water
It is essential to ensure that you are drinking enough water to keep your body hydrated, especially during hot summers or intense physical workouts. Here are a few tips to help you achieve this:
- Carry a water bottle with you wherever you go and sip on water throughout the day.
- Drink water before, during, and after your workout.
- Eat fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelons, cucumbers, and oranges.
- Avoid sugary drinks like sodas and energy drinks that dehydrate you.
The Bottom Line
Water is essential for our body, and we need to make sure we drink enough water to keep ourselves hydrated and healthy. While the recommended daily intake is 8 glasses or 2 liters per day, it can vary depending upon various factors. The best way is to listen to your body and drink water when you feel thirsty. Make sure you drink enough water, especially when you are in hot temperatures or doing intense physical activity to avoid dehydration.