The New Thoughts About How Much H2O You Really Need To Drink
So how much water do we really need to drink each day?
The blunt answer is that we really don't know. It varies depending on your height, weight, activity, temperature, health, medications, and a lot of other things. The 64 ounce rule isn't for everyone.
Now there's no question you probably need to drink a little bit more than a little bit less when it comes to fluids -- especially here in the summer months at mile high altitude.
But the problem is that we really can't say exactly what a little bit more is.
The research from this study is actually based on athletes and how much fluid they need when they run a marathon or do some very heavy duty workout. It turns out more athletes keel over from water intoxication than dehydration -- too much water rather than too little. The problem boils down to the fact that the symptoms of too much water are often mistaken for too little water: fatigue, cramps, etc.
But how about us mere mortals who cut the lawn, sit in an office, go for a walk, go for a jog? How much do we need?
Here are four general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Drink when you get thirsty. You don't need to guzzle a gallon before activity. Your body will let you know when you need to top the tank.
- Check your urine color -- light yellow is good. Clear or dark -- not so good.
- You don't need a sports drink to stay tuned up -- they'll give you fluids but really don't supply all of the electrolytes and salts needed for heavy athletic exertion. If you like the taste, well, that's a bonus.
- And don't forget that you get about 20 percent of your daily water intake from food -- probably more if you're a big fruit or veggie eater.
Bottom line: Don't get compulsive about all of this number business -- 64 ounces may be right for you. It may be too little for you. It may be too much. Some experts even say 40-50 ounces is about right.
In any case, keep in mind a few things: alcohol is horrible for fluid replacement. (And water is better than soda!) Coffee and tea are not so bad. And if you are heading to altitude and mountains -- or going on vacation to a humid climate -- pay special attention to that thirst signal -- and always listen to your body.
One size glass does not fit all.
Dr. Dave Hnida is CBS4's Medical Editor. He blogs about the latest studies and trends in the health world. Read his latest blog entries, check out his bio or follow him on Twitter @drdavehnida