How Many Glasses of Water Should You Drink Daily?
You may have heard advice that you should drink 8 glasses of water a day. Although there is some skepticism over the truth of this statement, health experts still believe that it is beneficial to drink a lot of water each day. The body is made up of 60 percent water, and bodily systems depend on water to function. Water lubricates the body and helps you stay healthy. You can obtain water by drinking regular water and other beverages containing water, as well as eating fruits and vegetables. Does this Spark an idea?
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Recommended Amount
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There is no scientific evidence behind the myth of drinking eight 8-ounce glasses a day, but it is still important to drink a lot of water. The Food and Nutrition Board recommends that adults drink 2.5 liters of water daily. Your body loses 1.5 liters of water a day through normal bodily functions, and Mayo Clinic recommends that you replace this loss by drinking 2 liters of water. Dietary recommendations may vary, though; the Institute of Medicine recommends 2.2 to 3 liters of water a day.
Dehydration
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Drinking a lot of water is vital to health. When you don't get enough water, you may feel less energetic and constantly tired, which are symptoms of dehydration. Dehydration means that your body is losing too much fluid that is not getting replaced quickly. Other symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea.
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Benefits
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Drinking enough water helps the kidneys function properly. It helps prevent urinary diseases, and may help in losing weight and avoiding constipation. Water also cleanses the body to help it get rid of waste. Drinking water helps your skin glow, as water keeps the skin hydrated, especially in hot summer months.
Considerations
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Make sure that the water you drink comes from a clean source. Although potable water is available in the United States, it may benefit you to filter tap water with water filter systems like those made by Brita, to turn water into cleaner, more purified drinking water. Some households have water dispensers, or residents have bottled water delivered to the door. And a myriad of brands of natural spring water is readily available at stores.
Develop Healthy Habits
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Sometimes, you may neglect to drink water and may only do so with a meal. Make sure that you get enough water during the day by carrying a bottle of water with you. Get into the habit of drinking a couple of glasses during a meal, and opt for water instead of sugary drinks. Caffeinated drinks act as diuretics and flush out water from your body, so it is important to drink more water when drinking coffee and sodas.
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