Are 8 glasses of water per day really necessary? This is the Debate
You've heard it all: eight glasses water per day is the recommended amount. Is this really necessary? Do you believe that failure to comply could cause dehydration and other health issues? Is this a common old tale perpetuated by misinformed friends and family? We will examine the debate surrounding the idea that eight glasses of water a day is necessary for good health.
8 Glasses of Water: The Controversy behind the Eight Glasses
For many years, the idea of eight glasses per day has circulated widely. Some believe that dehydration could lead to fatigue, depression, nausea, or other problems. Although there are no solid scientific studies supporting this claim, many people still believe that eight glasses per day of water is essential for good health.
This advice likely originated in 1940 as part of an American government health initiative that encouraged Americans to consume more water. The amount of water that was recommended wasn't stated and it didn't specify the daily water intake. The idea of eight glasses per day is ingrained in popular culture, even though it has no scientific support.
Do the claims really hold?
No. The American Institute of Medicine (AIM) states that the average person needs two to three liters (8-12 cup) of water per day. This includes water from other sources than water. The recommendation for eight glasses per day of water is unnecessary and could be harmful to those who consume too much.
There is also no evidence to suggest that chronic conditions such as fatigue or inadequate hydration could be caused by dehydration. This claim is largely unsubstantiated, and can even pose a danger if it's taken too seriously. Hyponatremia is a dangerous condition where the body's electrolytes levels drop to dangerous levels due to excess water intake.
Expert Opinion
Experts are unanimous in their belief that eight glasses per day of water is dangerous and inaccurate. Research doesn't support the notion that eight glasses of water is necessary daily, according to Dr. Elisa Zid, registered dietitian, author of Nutrition at Your Fingertips. Drinking too much water could be hazardous.
Dr. Zied continues to say that water requirements vary from one person to the next, according to factors like activity, climate and general health. While she recommends staying hydrated all day, Dr. Zied notes it's not necessary to drink eight glasses (or any particular amount) of water each day.
The Best Advice
The best advice you can give yourself is to listen and only drink what your body needs. It is vital to keep hydrated for your overall health. However, it does not mean that you need to drink eight glasses of water per day to be properly hydrated. Focus on drinking enough fluids from many sources such as water, juice and other drinks.
Pay attention to what your body is telling you and make sure that you drink only when it's thirsty. You should drink more fluids if you experience fatigue or headaches. It is worth noting that eight glasses of fluids a day aren't the only way you can stay hydrated.
Conclusion
Science doesn't support the idea that eight glasses of water per day are necessary for good health. It is vital to keep hydrated. However, water intake varies by person according to activity, weather, and general health. It is best to only drink water when you feel thirsty, and make sure that your body gets enough fluids from many sources. These guidelines will ensure you are getting the right amount of water without being dehydrated.
The debate about drinking 8 glasses of water per day is unfounded, and it's not supported scientifically. While it is vital to keep hydrated, the best thing to do is listen to your body. Drink when you feel thirsty. Don't worry about how much water you drink each day. Instead, try to get enough fluids from multiple sources.