FREE SHIPPING on all orders $75+. See details.
Andrea drever
By Andrea Drever

Content and Editorial Director


Maybe you’ve seen those people lugging around gargantuan water jugs. And maybe you’ve chortled at them, just a little bit. But perhaps it’s gotten you thinking. How much water do we really (truly) need each day? And why?

Water is your body's primary chemical component and makes up about 50% to 70% of your body weight. Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to work properly. Water is essential for:

  • Carrying nutrients and oxygen to your cells
  • Aiding digestion
  • Normalizing blood pressure
  • Stabilizing heartbeat
  • Lubricating and cushioning joints
  • Protecting organs and tissues
  • Regulating body temperature
  • Maintaining electrolyte (sodium) balance
  • Flushing bacteria from your bladder
  • Preventing constipation
  • Getting rid of body waste

Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy, make it difficult to concentrate, and even leave you feeling nauseated. For your body to function properly, you must replenish its water supply by consuming beverages and foods that contain water. But how much? Studies have arrived at varying recommendations over the years. And your individual water needs depend on many factors, including your health, how active you are and where you live.

The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is:

  • About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women
  • About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men

Since water is vital to our daily functioning, is there is a benefit to drinking, say, a gallon or more of water? Not according to experts. Because contrary to what many people believe, exceeding our fluid needs provides no additional benefit. In fact, people who drink too much water, in the absence of electrolytes, run the risk of developing hyponatremia, a life-threatening condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood that occurs with overhydration.

So how do you know if you’re drinking enough? Your fluid intake is probably sufficient if you rarely feel thirsty and your urine is colorless or light yellow. Your doctor or dietitian can help you determine the daily amount of water that's right for you.

tractor pulling hay

There’s a Healthy Way To Be a Carnivore

If you source locally and from regenerative farmers, animal products can have a place in a healthy, well-balanced diet.

Read More
woman covering eyes

Clean Beauty Swap: Xeomin

Is this clean alternative to Botox for you? We break it down.

Read More
woman with curly hair back

Our Expert Guide to Using a Theragun

Everyone from pro athletes to weekend warriors swears by the benefits of a Theragun. But what exactly does this magical device do, and should you give it a shot?

Read More
essential oil being dripped into bottle

Why Doctors Are Embracing Essential Oils

Many people use essential oils at home. Here’s why hospitals are now looking to harness their power to treat patients.

Read More
woman in workout clothes exercising

Ten Safety Tips for Exercising Outdoors

Ready to start sweating outside? Here are some things to consider before you gear up and head out.

Read More
looking out on wing of plane, woman sitting at a table, persons arms

How We Use the Treat App

Our team explores the many benefits of Treat’s app at home and on the go.

Read More
woman writing on laptop

Unlocking the Health Benefits of an HSA

A health savings account can help make budgeting for health and wellness a breeze.

Read More
cave over water

The Soothing Ritual of Thalassotherapy

Relaxing, ocean-based therapy that will leave you feeling blissfully grounded.

Read More
glasses on book on bed

Can Blue Light Blockers Improve Your Sleep?

Sure, they can protect your eyes. But can blue light-blocking glasses help you sleep more soundly? Here’s what science has to say.

Read More

My Bag

Product thumbnail
Product title

Variant title

1

$ 0.00

Your cart is empty

SUBTOTAL

Taxes and shipping calculated at checkout