The body is made up of about 60% water. As the body constantly loses water during the day it is necessary that we re-hydrate. Dehydration is caused as a result of losing water from the body through urine, sweat and regular body functions like breathing.

2 liters or half a gallon of water should be consumed everyday as recommended by health experts. Some believe that water needs to be sipped on constantly throughout the day, even if one is not thirsty.

How much water is needed every day?

The general recommendation from The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine recommends 2.7 liters of water a day for women, and 3.7 liters for men.

This includes the fluids consumed from our daily intake of food such as teas, juice and various foods.

How much water you need depends on various factors such as:

• Where you live
• Your diet
• Temperature or season
• The environment
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• How active you are
• Your health
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Does adequate amount of water prevent health problems?

Mild dehydration caused by exercise or heat can have negative effects on both, physical and mental performance.

Drinking water can cause slight increase in metabolism, and drinking it about a half an hour before each meal can help you eat fewer calories. Both of these effects can contribute to weight loss in some people.

Drinking enough water can help counter the following health issues:

• Constipation
• Urinary tracts infections
• Kidney stones
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• Skin hydration

The elderly may need to consciously monitor their water intake because the thirst mechanisms can start to malfunction with aging. Studies show that adults over 65 years old are at a higher risk for dehydration.

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