You could ask your doctor and you could ask at a health food store. Regardless of where you go to find out how much is considered a safe amount of daily water intake, there are several factors to consider. Ultimately you want to avoid dehydration, but drinking water when you are thirsty is not enough. Here are some tips to guide you.
1 – You Need Water Daily
The human body depends on water for several reasons. It flushes toxins away, provides a pathway to cells that nutrients travel through and keeps sensitive organs moist for proper functioning. Dehydration is what happens when your body lacks the amount of water it requires. Without the proper level of daily water intake you risk losing energy and getting worn out which reduces productivity and quality of life.
2 – What Affects Your Hydration
As easy as it is to say you should drink 8 or 10 glasses of water daily, there are factors that have an impact on how your body uses it. If you exercise, or lead an active lifestyle, your body will lose more water through sweat than someone less active. This fluid loss needs to be recovered and extra water will suffice.
The environment you live in will also impact your hydration level. In particular, hot or humid climates will be a clue that you should increase your daily water intake. The same goes for high elevation climates which may increase breathing which will use more water than other localities. Plus, if you are ill or suffer from some health conditions, you will deplete your fluid reserves faster.
Another consideration is specifically for expectant mothers and breast-feeding women. Large amounts of water are used especially while nursing which needs to be replaced in order to prevent dehydration. It is a general guideline that nursing mothers consume no less than 13 cups of fluids per day to compensate.
3 – When To Drink Water Daily
As the foods you eat have a significant amount of water content, probably the most reliable source of fluids for your body comes from drinking water. This is why it is easy to add glasses of water to your daily routine. Drinking one with each meal, one before and after exercising or a vigorous activity and drink enough during the day where you do not feel thirsty and you will remain hydrated.
Stay Hydrated – Stay Healthy
As long as you are sure to keep your daily water intake at a level where your urine is either colourless or light yellow, you will keep your body healthy. With the right amount of fluids in your system, everything functions properly and you will look and feel your best!
