How Much Water Should I Drink? Mayo Clinic Article

Mayo Clinic: Water: How much should you drink every day?

The article states that your water needs depend on many factors, including your health, how active you are, and where you live. Water makes up 60% of your body weight. Every system in your body depends on water. For example, water flushes toxins, carries nutrients, and creates a moist environment for your ear, nose and throat. Lack of water can lead to dehydration, with even a mild case draining your energy and making you tired.

You loose water through your breath, perspiration, urine and bowl movements. You need to replenish water by consuming beverages and food that contain water.

Adequate Intake (AI) for men is roughly about 13 cups a day and the (AI) for women is about 9 cups per day. 

The article talks about drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water everyday and mentions this is an easy to remember amount but doesn’t feel that only water counts toward that total.

You may need to modify your fluid intake for the following factors :

• Exercise
• Intense exercise
• Environment
• Illness or health conditions
• Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

You don’t need to rely only on drinking water. On average, foods provide 20% of your fluid intake. Many fruits and vegetables are 90% or more water by weight. (Think watermelon or spinach). Other beverages also count, like milk and juice. They caution against counting too much beer, wine  and caffeinated beverages. The major portion of your water intake should be from water.

If you drink water when you are thirsty and your urine is colorless or light yellow you are probably drinking enough. If you are concerned please see a specialist.