Is drinking 8 glasses of water enough to keep you hydrated through the day?  

There are various theories and sciences behind this. Several studies have suggested that you should follow the 8x8 rule i.e., drink 8 glasses of water per day. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, an average adult should drink 11.5 cups of water per day (women) and 15.5 cups of water per day (men).   

However, there are several factors to consider before generalizing the number of glasses of water that will be required by an average person. Let’s look at some of the factors to consider when deciding on the ideal water intake:  

If you are living in hot, humid weather throughout the year, you are bound to feel thirsty more frequently as your body gets dehydrated from all the sweating and perspiration.   

Health Conditions

If you are suffering from an illness, infection, or are experiencing a chronic ailment, then your body would demand more fluid intake compared to normal circumstances.   

Physical activity

People will low physical activity like those spending most of their day sitting in front of a laptop on the desk might not feel the urge to hydrate themselves that frequently. On the other hand, people involved in physical labour like dancing, field reporting, sportspersons, or simply those who work out regularly would require more water consumption as the bodily fluids, particularly electrolytes are lost during exercise and need replenishment.   

Dietary habits

Have you ever observed that you tend to feel thirstier after having a rich meal, that is high in sugar, salt, and spices? Or if you aren’t consuming fresh fruits and vegetables in adequate amounts? This happens because your body demands the fluid that has been missing throughout.   

Now you may wonder if it’s just water intake that can solve all your hydration problems. Firstly, you don’t need to be conscious about drinking water all the time. Our bodies are designed in such a way that it automatically sends our brain a signal that you are thirsty. Secondly, our bodily fluid balance can be maintained even when we aren’t drinking water all the time because the other things we consume like fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, and other beverages add up to fulfill our water needs.