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Debi Pillarella, MEd Responds:
We need to take in enough water to replace the amount we lose daily through excretion, perspiration, and other bodily functions. But this can vary widely from person to person, based on age, physical condition, activity level, and climate. The 8 to 10 glasses of water a day we often hear about is a guideline, not an absolute. As far as those water-based drinks, they can help you stay hydrated, but you may want to take a look at the ingredient labels to be sure you’re making smart choices. All beverages can contribute to total daily fluid intake—but try to include several glasses of plain water each day.
The bottom line is that we need to keep our bodies hydrated for optimal health and performance. And thirst isn’t always a reliable gauge of the body’s need for water, especially in children and older adults. A better barometer is the color of your urine: Clear or light-colored urine means you’re well hydrated, and a dark-yellow or amber color can be a signal of dehydration.
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Debi Pillarella
MEd
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