Water is life. It makes up more than 60% of your body and is important for almost every function, from keeping your organs working properly to helping you digest food and regulating your body temperature. But the most important question is, how much water should you drink each day?

The old saying "eight glasses a day" is still true for a lot of people. That's a good rule of thumb, but the answer is more personal than you might think. Your age, weight, activity level, climate, and even your diet can all affect how much water you should drink.

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Why Water Is So Important

Before we get into the numbers, let's talk about why it's so important to stay hydrated:

• Improves brain function—Even mild dehydration can make it hard to focus and feel good.
• Water helps break down food and absorb nutrients, which makes digestion better.
• It helps keep your kidneys healthy by getting rid of toxins and waste through urine.
• Keeps your energy up—being dehydrated can make you tired.
• Keeps skin glowing: Skin that is well-hydrated looks healthier and more radiant.

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So, how much water should you drink?

Here's a simple way to look at it:

• Men: 3.7 liters (15.5 cups) a day
• Women: 2.7 liters (11.5 cups) a day

The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine made these suggestions. But keep in mind that this includes all sources of water, such as drinks and food.

When You Might Need to Drink More Water

You probably need more fluids if:

• You work out or are active a lot.
• You live in a place that is hot or humid.
• You are either pregnant or nursing.
• You are sick, have a fever, or are throwing up or having diarrhea.

In these situations, your body loses more water and needs to be refilled often.

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Signs That You Don't Drink Enough

Sometimes, your body says more than any rule. Be on the lookout for these signs of dehydration:

• Lips and mouth that are dry
• Pain in the head
• Urine that is dark yellow
• Dizziness or tiredness
• Constipation

Get a glass of water if you're feeling any of these things. Your body will thank you.

How to Stay Hydrated

Always have a water bottle that you can refill.

• To make water taste better, add slices of cucumber, lemon, or berries.
• Set reminders every hour to drink water.
• Eat foods that are high in water, like oranges, cucumbers, and watermelon.
• Drink a glass of water when you wake up and before bed.

Conclusion

There is no one answer that works for everyone when it comes to how much water you should drink every day. Pay attention to how you feel and drink enough water every day. Don't drink too much; just enough to keep your body running smoothly.