How Much Water Should Be Drunk in a Day?

How much water you need depends on a few variables.

Eight Cups per Day

The suggestion for a healthy adult to drink eight to 10 eight ounce cups per day is a common rule of thumb for many. Drinking less is often warned against, as it could potentially lead to chronic dehydration or even issues with water retention. Since we lose water through urine, breathing, perspiration and bowel movements, we must be careful to make sure we replace enough to stay healthy.

Variables to Account For

How much water to drink per day is different for everyone. Water needs depend on factors such as individual health, activity levels and even where you live. There is no one formula that fits all. If you rarely feel thirsty and produce approximately 6.3 cups or more of colorless or slightly yellow urine a day, your fluid intake is probably adequate.

Bottom Line

While there is no danger to drinking eight cups of water each day, it is not a rule that is set in stone and applies to everyone. Since individual water needs may vary, if you are concerned about your fluid intake a doctor or a registered dietitian can help determine the amount that is best for you.

References

• MayoClinic: Water: How much should you drink every day?
• NaturoDoc: Think You're Drinking Enough Water?
• Snopes: Eight Glasses