How Many Liters of Water Should a Person Drink Daily?

Experts recommend drinking about 2 liters of water a day.

General Guideline

According to experts at The Mayo Clinic, the average adult needs about 2 liters of water a day. This helps account for the 1.5 liters that is lost as urine, and the 1 liter that is lost through sweating, breathing and bowel movements.

It's in the Food

It's not just about downing liters of water. About 20 percent of total fluid intake actually comes from food, with the other 80 percent coming from water and other beverages. Soups, fruit and vegetables, and even coffee, tea and soda will all contribute to daily water intake.

Bottom Line

As long as there are no feelings of thirst and about 1.5 liters of colorless urine is produced a day, the guideline of drinking 2 liters of water per day should be sufficient. If there is any concern, be sure to consult a dietitian or physician.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Water
• Anne Collins: Water Needs for Diet, Nutrition, Good Health