Commentary: The facts and fictions around drinking water

Everyone knows how important it is to drink water. But even with a concept so simple, there are plenty of myths regarding exactly how much or the specific benefits. Let’s separate fact from fiction when it comes to drinking water.

Fact or fiction: Everyone needs to drink eight glasses of water each day.

While this recommendation is well known, it isn’t entirely accurate. According to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies, most women need 2.7 liters of water per day, while most men need 3.7 liters. This can come from beverages and food such as fruits, vegetables, cooked whole grains, soups, milk, juice, coffee, tea, and water. This averages to about nine cups of fluid for women and 13 cups of fluid for men.

It’s important to note these averages are for people who aren’t active and live in a temperate climate. Anyone who is very active or who lives in a warmer climate may require even more fluid. While water is the best choice, milk, tea and carbonated water are good substitutes. It’s best to limit soda, juice and sugar-sweetened drinks.

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