How much water should I drink in a day? It’s a simple question you might ask yourself, yet there is no easy answer for it. You probably already know the importance of consuming fluids, especially when the sun is scorching outside. Regardless of the temperature, staying hydrated is a daily requirement.

 

You might have heard people say that a person should drink at least eight glasses of water every day. This, however, may not entirely be true, and it is certainly not a one-size-fits-all kind of solution. The amount of water each person should consume every day largely depends on their activity level, age, and several other factors.

So, how much water should you drink in a day? Over the years, several studies have resulted in differing recommendations. Water makes up around 60% of your body. Most health professionals will recommend drinking at least 8-ounce glasses or half a gallon of water every day. However, some health experts suggest that you should drink water at regular intervals throughout the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty.

This, like so many other things, is completely dependent on you. The amount of water you require is influenced by various factors (both internal and external).

 

Factors that Determine How Much Water an Individual Needs

Several factors determine how much water a person needs every day. According to the Ministry of Health, the required daily water intake for adults is:

• 7 litres (15.5 cups) for men
• 7 litres (11.5 cups) for women

Here is a list of some factors that determine water intake requirements for human beings:

 

1. Regular Exercise

Regular exercise makes you sweat, and when you sweat, you naturally lose water. Therefore, you’ll need extra water intake to cover up for the lost fluids. It is crucial to drink water before, during, and after a workout.

 

2. Weather Conditions

Your environment also plays an important role in determining how much water you should drink during the day. You’ll need to increase your water intake if you live in a hot, dry, or humid climate. You may also feel dehydrated if you live at a higher altitude, like in mountainous regions.

 

3. Daily Diet

You are bound to lose water through urination if you regularly consume caffeinated drinks, such as coffee. Additionally, you should consume a lot of water if your diet mostly comprises sugary, salty, or spicy foods.

 

4. Overall Health

Diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever make your body lose essential nutrients and fluids. Follow your doctor’s suggestions related to oral rehydration and focus on keeping your fluid intake up. Other conditions, such as urinary tract stones, diabetes, or bladder infections, also require increasing your water intake.

 

5. The Environment

If you spend more time outside of the house in the sun, under hot temperatures, or if you stay in a heated room, you must increase the number of glasses of water you consume every day to prevent dehydration.

 

6. Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

A pregnant or nursing woman generally requires additional water than usual to maintain her and her baby’s health. After all, your body is doing the work of two (or more!).

Your body constantly loses water, primarily through urine, sweat, and regular bodily functions. Therefore, you need plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day. If you liked this article on how much water should I drink in a day, please visit our website.