When it comes to water it’s generally agreed that you need to drink eight glasses of water a day. However, while this is the general response from anyone within the medical community, it’s not always quite as straightforward as it may seem.
Before we take a look at the variables that influence how much water you really need to drink, it is important to make sure you have easy access to water at all times. While you are getting yourself healthier, consider getting life insurance with no medical exam so you and your family are covered.
- Carry It With You
The simplest way to ensure you always have water to drink is to carry it with you all the time. The simplest way to do this is to invest in a reusable bottle. This will ensure the plastic doesn’t leach into the water and give you health issues.
Of course, carrying water will encourage you to drink it regularly but you’re unlikely to carry the equivalent of eight glasses with you in one bottle.
- Get A Dispenser Fitted
The best approach is to have a water dispenser fitted at home and at the office. There are many different options on the market, including those that filter the water for you. Having a dispenser means you can easily get water or refill your bottle.
It’s even possible to have chilled water dispensed, helping to keep you cool on hot days.
Why The Amount Varies
There are several reasons why you may be okay drinking a little less water or you need to drink more:
- Food & drink consumption
Although we commonly talk about eight glasses of water it is important to remember that water is present in most foods and drinks. That means, if you drink several cups of tea and coffee per day you are already a long way toward your water goal.
Supplement this with a few glasses of water and you’re drinking enough to stay healthy.
- Heat
Put simply, the hotter it is the more you’ll sweat. This causes your body to lose water and it will need to be replaced. In other words, if you’re considering water consumption levels and it’s the middle of summer, you may want to increase the amount you’re drinking to 10 or even 12 glasses.
- Activity level
Exercise can cause the same issue as hot days. When you exercise you sweat and this means your body is losing water. The effect is increased when you exercise in the heat. The more you sweat the greater your need to drink more water.
It is possible but difficult to over hydrate. That means drinking a few extra glasses is acceptable and will help you stay healthy.
- Doctor’s orders
In some situations, you may be told to drink more or even to drink less water. This is usually a direct response to a specific medical condition or the medications you are taking. Your doctor will advise if you need to be careful about anything.
If this is the case, make sure you follow their instructions properly.
