How much water should I drink a day?

There are many different sources that say different things about how much water you should drink a day. Ultimately, it’s a simple question with no simple answer!

There has been extensive research into just how much water we should be drinking a day. When you begin to feel as if you’re thirsty, your body is already dehydrated, a good indication to drink a glass of water. Studies have produced varying recommendations, but no single formula can fit everyone! There are many different factors – like how active you are, how much your body sweats, the weather, your age and where you live.

We all drink water, but what are the health benefits?

Water makes up a staggering 50% - 70% of our body weight, a core body chemical component. Ultimately, we depend on water to survive, heightening it’s importance dramatically.

Every cell, organ and muscle require water to survive and function properly. For example, water:

•    Cushions and lubricates joints within the body.
•    Keeps our temperature at a normal rate.
•    Protects your spinal corn and other sensitive tissues.
•    Rids your body of waste through urination, perspiration, and other bowel movements.

Dehydration is a serious condition that occurs when your body has a lack of water. Even mild dehydration can cause sickness, energy drain and fatigue.

So how much water do we really need?

You’ve probably heard about drinking 8 cups of water a day – and it’s a good target to have. It’s easy to remember, and a reasonable goal.

Most people can stay healthy simply by drinking water and other fluids whenever they feel thirsty. However, it may not be enough for other people. You may need to modify your daily intake of water based on the following factors:

Heatwaves & Environment Factors: The hot or humid weather often makes you sweat a lot more than you normally would – so it’s important to remember to drink enough water for your body to function as it normally would. In fact, to combat dehydration during the warm weather, we've put together a guide on 'How to Stay Hydrated This Summer!'

Exercise: Workouts, or even daily activities, can make you sweat. In order to cover the fluid loss, you may need to drink an extra cup or two of water. It’s important to drink water before, during and after an intense workout.

Health: When we have a fever or experience vomiting or diarrhoea, our body loses a lot of water. To recoup the lost water, drink more or follow a doctor’s recommendation to drink oral solutions. If you are vomiting and are unable to keep water down, sip little and often on ice-cold water.

Pregnancy & Breast-Feeding: If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, you may require more water to stay hydrated.

Is water the only solution to staying hydrated?

It’s certainly not! There are plenty of foods that you can drink to stay hydrated. In fact, we’ve created “The Top 10 Foods That Boost Hydration” so you know which foods are best!

Apart from the foods that are listed within that guide, beverages such as milk, juice and herbal teas are all composed of mostly water. It’s important to drink water if your body feels dehydrated, however.

How do I know if I’m drinking enough?

Your fluid intake is most likely adequate if:

•    You rarely feel as if you’re thirsty.
•    Your urine is colourless or a light yellow.

If you’re concerned about your bodily intake, your doctor or a dietician can help you determine the right amount of daily water intake for you.

Every moment of every day, you lose water through one way or another, whether that be coughing, sneezing, using the loo or simply breathing. For your body to continue it’s core functions, it needs water to replenish it’s supply by consuming beverages, or foods, that contain a high water content.

Should I worry about drinking too much water?

It is possible to drink too much water, although a very rare problem for healthy, well-nourished adults. This can occur to athletes, however, who may drink too much water to prevent dehydration. Drinking too much water, your kidneys are unable to get rid of the excess water, causing the sodium content in your blood to become diluted. This Is called hyponatremia and can be life-threatening.

Whilst water is important for your body, it’s important to take everything into consideration.

Summary:

We suggest you aim for 8 cups of water a day, plus your refreshing foods. If you require additional hydration needs, your doctor may be able to advise you best.

Our staff undertake expert hydration training. If you, or a loved one, requires care and would like to know more about hydration, please contact us now!