HOW MUCH WATER YOU SHOULD DRINK

March 24, 2009, 8:07 am

Nutrients are substances YOU need to get every day from what you eat and drink, and by that definition water is an essential nutrient. The recommended amount of water is 8 glasses (64 ounces) per day. That may seem excessive, but under average conditions—a moderate temperature, and only light exercise—the body loses 2 to 3 quarts (2 quarts equals 64 ounces) of fluid a day through sweating, breathing and waste products.

All that fluid must be replaced to maintain an adequate fluid balance in the body. Some of the fluid is replaced when you eat solid foods, such as fruits and vegetables— which contain a lot of water. Other liquids, such as juice, milk, soup, and soft drinks, also help replace lost fluids.

Plain water is best, however, because it is more efficiently absorbed than other fluids, especially those that are high in sugar. Coffee and caffeinated soft drinks are not good replacements either because caffeine acts as a diuretic and causes even more fluid to be lost. Alcohol has the same negative effect.

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