This very popular question is asked thousands of times every single day on the Internet.

The real question is, how much water do you need as an individual to be properly hydrated.

Being properly hydrated is an essential to human health and plays a major role in preventing disease.

The Importance of Water Consumption

Water is CRITICAL for maintaining good health.

Deciding the appropriate amount of water you should drink daily to stay hydrated properly could vary from person to person.

In fact, there have been many studies that have proven individual water requirements are based upon several factors such as health status, activity levels, and even geographical location.

A one-size-fits-all approach is not applicable when it comes to hydration. However, understanding your own body's demand for hydration can help you to decide your daily water intake. 

The Benefits of Hydration

Water constitutes a significant portion of your body's composition, ranging from 50% to 70% of your body weight.

More importantly, your body relies on water these critical functions:

• Elimination of waste through urine, sweat, and bowel movements
• Regulation of body temperature
• Lubrication and cushioning of joints
• Protection of sensitive tissues

Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, where the body lacks adequate fluid to perform its functions optimally.

Even mild dehydration can result in fatigue and decreased energy levels.

Determining Your Specific Water Needs

Every minute of every day your body loses water through breathing, sweating, urination, and bowel movements.

To have a healthy body function, it's essential to replenish lost water by consuming more water and foods that contain water.

So, how much fluid does an average, healthy adult require in a moderate climate?

According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine: (link to this organization)

• Men should aim for approximately 15.5 cups of water daily.
• Women should aim for around 11.5 cups of water daily.

These include not just hydration from water, but also other beverages, and food. In fact about 20% of daily fluid intake comes from food.

The most popular rule of thumb is drink eight glasses of water daily.

However, this rule does not fit all. Individual needs may vary.

Most people can maintain hydration levels adequately by drinking water or other fluids just when they are thirsty.

Factors such as exercise, environmental conditions, overall health, pregnancy, and breastfeeding will cause a need to increase water intake.

Other Sources of Hydration

Water isn't the sole means of meeting your hydration needs.

Your diet also contributes significantly. Many fruits and vegetables, like watermelon and spinach, have high water content.

Beverages such as milk, juice, and herbal teas also provide good hydration.

Even caffeinated beverages (coffee) can contribute, though sugary drinks should be consumed sparingly due to their high-calorie content.