Water is the main source for our bodies. It makes up over 60 percent of our bodies and is vital to our daily lives. This is not in dispute. What is in dispute is how much water should people should be drinking on a daily basis.
According to a recent article from the Mayo Clinic, “ The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is:
- About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids for men
- About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women” (www.mayoclinic.org, Sept. 6, 2017)
Now notice this is not water… they mention just fluid intake. The article later on does mention that the old adage of drinking 8 glasses of 8 ounces daily is not a bad idea but that some people probably don’t need it while others may be falling way short. It all depends on where you live, how much you exercise, what your diet is like and of course if you are male or female.
The Mayo Clinic did have some good solid advice that you can go by to help make sure you are staying hydrated enough, “Your fluid intake is probably adequate if:
- You rarely feel thirsty
- Your urine is colorless or light yellow” (www.mayoclinic.org, Sept. 6, 2017)
However, your doctor is always there to help too! They can certainly help you find the best water intake for you.
Also, these are guidelines for healthy people. If you have any health issues that your doctor has asked you to reduce your water don’t change it!! They do typically know what’s best for you. 😊
Steeley Grace 