The question comes up over and over again, “How much water should I be drinking?” The answer is half of your body weight in ounces. That means if you weigh 100 pounds, your daily water intake should be 50 ounces. If you weigh 200 pounds, your daily water intake should be 100 ounces.
This does not take into account other beverages that you drink during the day unless you are drinking non caffeinated teas or unsweetened juices.
It also does not account for factors that require more hydration such as exercise, caffeine consumption and the amount of time spent on a computer or device such as a tablet or phone.
To adjust your daily water intake for exercise, weigh yourself before you exercise and again after. For every pound lost, drink 2 additional cups of water.
For caffeine consumption, drink an additional cup of water for each cup of caffeinated beverage.
If you are in front of a computer, laptop or tablet for more than 2 hours per day, drink an additional cup of water.
There are a number of handy apps that help you track your daily water intake. One example is Hydro Coach, which calculates your water needs per day and reminds you to drink throughout the day.
In addition to tracking your daily water intake, remember that hydration is more than just water and includes other fluids and water-rich foods. It’s also important to pay attention to your body’s signals. Signs of dehydration can include dry mouth, dark urine, fatigue, dizziness, or headaches. Drinking water consistently throughout the day is better than consuming large amounts all at once. You can also add fruits and vegetables with high water content, like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon, to help stay hydrated. Remember, proper hydration supports digestion, skin health, energy levels, and overall wellness. Making hydration a habit ensures your body functions at its best.
Dr. Joelle Cafaro is a holistic medicine practitioner helping clients achieve lasting wellness through natural healing, nutrition, and holistic health strategies.
