How Much Water Should We be Drinking in a Day?
Although we may prefer an iced vanilla latte in the morning, drinking water has so many benefits. Water helps to fuel your muscles, boost your metabolism, and give you younger-looking skin.
“Dehydration is damaging to our tissues and decreases our blood volume, which can reduce blood flow to vital organs," says Dr. Irwin Rosenberg, M.D., Senior Scientist at Tufts University’s Neuroscience and Aging Laboratory. Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, and even confusion. It is vital that we all drink the proper amount of water each day.
How Do You Calculate Your Daily Water Needs?
According to the Mayo Clinic, adult women need around 11.5 cups of fluid per day, while most men require about 15.5 cups. With that being said, this number largely depends on body weight and activity levels. A good way to estimate how many fluid ounces you need a day is by multiplying your body weight times .5. If you plan to work out or spend any time outside, it is important to drink more fluids.
Where Can We Get Water From?
Drinking water is best for staying hydrated. Although other drinks and foods can help prevent dehydration, some may add extra calories to your diet. If you can’t stand the taste of plain old water, try adding lemon or opt for sugar-free drinks like Vitamin Water Zero.
If Staying Hydrated is Difficult For You, Here Are Some Tips That Can Help:
Carry a bottle of water with you throughout the day. To reduce costs and help the environment, use a reusable water bottle and fill it with tap water.
If you don’t like the taste of plain water, try adding fresh fruit to your drink.
Drink water before, during, and after a workout.
When you’re feeling hungry, drink water. Thirst is often confused with hunger, but true hunger will not be satisfied with drinking water. Drinking water may also contribute to a healthy weight-loss plan.
If you have trouble remembering to drink water, drink on a schedule. For example, drink water when you wake up, at all of your meals, and when you go to bed. Another option is to drink a small glass of water at the beginning of each hour.
If you try out any of these tips, make sure to let us know @TheEdgeMag!
Sources: CDC , Mayo Clinic & Press From