The daily four-to-six cup rule is for generally healthy people. It’s possible to take in too much water if you have certain health conditions, such as thyroid disease or kidney, liver, or heart problems; or if you’re taking medications that make you retain water, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opiate pain medications, and some antidepressants.
How much water a day should you drink if you fit into that category? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Water intake must be individualized, and you should check with your doctor if you are not sure about the right amount for you.
But even a healthy person’s water needs will vary, especially if you’re losing water through sweat because you’re exercising, or because you’re outside on a hot day. If you’re wondering how much water you should drink on those occasions a general rule of thumb for healthy people is to drink two to three cups of water per hour, or more if you’re sweating heavily.
Water is essential for our bodies to function properly. Despite being one of the most basic needs, many people still don’t drink enough water every day. Here, we will look at the benefits of water intake, backed by research and statistics.
- Helps Maintain Physical Performance A study conducted by the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that even mild dehydration can negatively impact physical performance. Drinking water can help regulate body temperature, maintain blood volume, and prevent fatigue.
- Promotes Weight Loss Drinking water can help increase feelings of fullness and promote weight loss. A study published in Obesity found that drinking water before a meal led to decreased calorie intake and weight loss.
- Supports Skin Health Drinking water can help improve skin health by keeping it hydrated and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A study published in the Journal of Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology found that drinking at least 2 liters of water per day can improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
- Aids Digestion Water is essential for digestion and can help prevent constipation. A study published in the Journal of Gastroenterology found that drinking water can help improve bowel function and reduce the risk of constipation.
- Boosts Immune System Drinking water can help improve the function of the immune system. A study published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics found that proper hydration is essential for maintaining the function of the immune system and can help prevent illness.
- Reduces Headaches and Migraines Dehydration can cause headaches and migraines. Drinking water can help prevent headaches and migraines by maintaining proper hydration levels. A study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain found that drinking water can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches and migraines.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women should drink 2.7 liters of water per day, while men should drink 3.7 liters per day. Make sure to drink enough water to stay hydrated and reap the numerous health benefits.