Water!! Your Best Friend

The human body is about 60-70 percent water. We need water to help us digest food, carry nutrients, remove waste, cushion organs and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. Water is found in the foods we eat and the beverages we drink each day.

Do I need to drink eight glasses of water every day to stay healthy?

No. Research shows that drinking less than eight glasses of water per day does not lead to negative health effects. The amount of water that a person needs to drink every day is different for everyone. What is most important is that you drink enough fluids to avoid dehydration. Your fluid intake can include water as well as a variety of other fluids.

How to know if you are drinking enough

Check your thirst – If you are thirsty or have a dry mouth, it is likely that you are not drinking enough. Aim to drink fluids often throughout the day. Remember that once you are thirsty, you are already somewhat dehydrated.

Check your urine – If your urine is a dark yellow colour and has a strong smell, you may not be getting enough fluids. Urine that is light yellow or clear in colour usually means that you are drinking enough fluids. The amount of urine you make can also be a sign of your hydration status. If you do not make much urine throughout the day and it is dark in colour, you likely need more fluids.

Check your mood – If you feel light headed and tired, are not able to focus or have many headaches, these could be signs that you are dehydrated.

To meet your fluid needs throughout the day, choose water most often. Remember that other fluids like milk, coffee, tea and juice also count towards your daily fluid intake. Try to avoid soft drinks and limit drinks with caffeine to 3 cups per day. Remember to drink even more fluids when you are active and during hot weather.