Water is life — almost every system of the body depends on it to survive. Water removes toxins from the body, helps regulate body temperature, and supports many other functions. But do we really need eight glasses a day?
Melissa Hughes, a registered dietitian nutritionist, certified wellness and health coach, and program manager for the Sharp Rees-Stealy Center for Health Management, helps clarify this and other common hydration questions.
Do I need to drink 8 glasses of water a day? “This is a broad recommendation, but a good goal. The exact amount of water you need to drink varies based on factors like age, gender, height and weight. People who are very physically active or have certain medical conditions, like kidney stones or a bladder infection, may need more than eight glasses a day.”
Does clear urine mean I’m hydrated? “Clear urine means you may be drinking more water than you need. A very light-yellow color means you’re well hydrated. The deeper the color of the urine, the more dehydrated the body. Some medications can also change the color or urine. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you noticed changes. If urine is dark amber or brown, seek medical attention.”
Can I drink too much water? “It’s really difficult to drink too much water. Rare cases of overhydration can cause hyponatremia, a critically low level of sodium in the blood. Symptoms are similar to heat exhaustion and include headache, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.”
When is staying hydrated most important? “Hydration is especially important on warmer days because we lose water quicker. Early signs of dehydration include weakness, cramping and headache.”
