Water needs?

Question
Hello! I have been waking up every morning for some time now with a very dry mouth and feel, overall, like I haven't had nearly enough water the day before. However, I do try to drink as much as I can comfortably can in a day, though I don't know how much I actually get down and haven't kept track in a while. I do exercise, so maybe I'm not getting enough? Or is it common to feel dry in the morning regardless of how much water you've had the day before? Thank you for any answers or suggestions you can give!

Answer
Hello Kara!

If you are thirsty in the morning you probably are not gettting enough water in your diet.  How much water should you drink each day? 梛ust as you are unique, so are your water needs. And how much water you need depends on many factors, including your health status, how active you are and where you live.

One approach to water intake is the "8 x 8 rule" ?drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day (about 1.9 liters). The rule could also be stated, "drink eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid a day," as all fluids count toward the daily total. Though this approach isn't supported by scientific evidence, many people use this basic rule as a guideline for how much water and other fluids to drink.


If you exercise or engage in any activity that makes you sweat, you'll need to drink extra water to compensate for that fluid loss. Drink 2 cups of water two hours before a long endurance event, for example, a marathon or half-marathon. One to 2 cups of water is also adequate for shorter bouts of exercise. During the activity, replenish fluids at regular intervals, and continue drinking water or other fluids after you're finished.

Fruits and vegetables ?besides being good sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber ?contain lots of water. For example, oranges are 87 percent water, and cucumbers are 95 percent water. Milk, juice and other beverages also have large amounts of water. Conversely, dried fruits, nuts, grain products and baked goods generally contain less water.

Alcohol ?such as beer and wine ?and caffeinated beverages ?such as coffee, tea or soda ?can contribute to your total fluid intake. But your best beverage is still water. Water is calorie-free, inexpensive when drawn from a faucet or fountain, and readily available in and out of your home.

Drink a glass of water with each meal and between each meal. Take water breaks instead of coffee or tea breaks.
Substitute sparkling water for alcoholic drinks at social gatherings.

For more answers to your nutrition questions check out "Ask the Nutritionists" by George Rapitis at www.authorhouse.com

-George Rapitis, Bsc, Nutritionist
www.juiceblend.com

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