Is it Necessary to Drink 8 Glasses of Water?
Is it really necessary to drink 8 glasses of water?
I’ve often wondered that myself. Although being properly hydrated prevents fatigue, creates energy and supports organ and muscle health, is it true that everyone needs to drink this exact amount each and every day?
Not according to researchers. The “drink 8 glasses of water” rule does not apply to everyone. How much water you need to drink depends on the climate in which you live (the more arid the climate, the more water you need), how much coffee you drink (the rule is to drink 2 cups of water for every cup of coffee you drink since coffee does dehydrate you), your age and fitness level. Athletes need more water because they sweat more. Older people tend to get dehydrated without realizing it. People who drink energy drinks, like those who drink coffee, need more water to compensate for the dehydrating effects of caffeinated beverages.
While drinking 8 glasses of water may not be absolutely necessary for you, if you suffer from heart disease, you need to pay extra attention to your water intake. If you don’t replace the water your body loses every day, then this can thicken your blood (which is about 80% water), which will make your heart work harder and could result in a heart attack.
When it’s hot outside and the humidity is high, then you need to be more careful about hydration. On days like this, it may be necessary to drink 8 glasses of water.
