Drink water. We know it’s important. We hear the message constantly. Yet, many of us don’t drink enough.
So how much water should we be drinking every day? While no single formula fits everyone, knowing more about your body’s need for fluids will help you estimate how much water you should drink every day. The Mayo Clinic offers the following information.
Every system in your body depends on water. For example, water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells and provides a moist environment for ear, nose and throat tissues.
When you don’t have enough water in your body normal functions can be impaired. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired.
Every day you lose water through your breath, perspiration, and when you use the restroom. For your body to function properly, you must replenish its water supply by consuming beverages and foods that contain water.
You may need to modify your total fluid intake depending on how active you are, the climate you live in, your health status, and if you’re pregnant or breast-feeding.
• Exercise. If you engage in any activity that makes you sweat, you need to drink extra water to compensate for the fluid loss.
• Environment. Hot or humid weather can make you sweat and requires additional intake of fluid. Heated indoor air also can cause your skin to lose moisture during winter.
• Illnesses or health conditions. When you have fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, your body loses additional fluids. In these cases, you should drink more water.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding. Women who are expecting or breast-feeding need additional fluids to stay hydrated. Large amounts of fluid are used especially when nursing.
