How Much Water Should You Drink in the Summer?
Caroline Samuelsen
| 2 min read
As temperatures continue to rise this summer, it's important to concentrate on how much water you consume daily. It is estimated that 75% of Americans suffer from chronic dehydration and that issue is especially apparent in the warm summer months.
Why hydration is important
According to the Mayo Clinic, water takes up 50% to 70% of your body’s weight. Youneed water daily to survive. Every organ, tissue, and cell in your body requires water to function properly. Water regulates your temperature, protectsand cushions sensitive joints, and gets rid of waste.
Signs of dehydration
When your body becomes dehydrated, there are a few signs to look for, according to University of Nebraska Lincoln:
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Feeling tired
- Feeling thirsty
- Urinating and sweating less than usual
- Dark-colored urine
- Dry skin
Dehydration can be life threatening and can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If you experience fainting, confusion, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, or shock, medical attention is necessary.
How much water to drink in summer
How much water you should drink in the summer can vary by sex and age. The Mayo Clinic recommends for full grown adults, 15.5 cups of water a day for men and 11.5 cups a day for women. For kids, Johns Hopkins Medicine recommends drinking the number of 8-ounce cups of water that their age is until they reach age 8. If a child is 5 years old, they should drink five 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Once they pass the age of 8, they should stick to 8 cups a day.
Tips for drinking more water
There are a few ways to get the daily amount of water. Eating fruits and vegetables that are 100% water such as watermelon, cucumber, and spinach can factor into your daily water consumption. Juices, teas, milk, and coffee also help. Stay away from drinks with high sugar content because that will actively work against hydration. When you are on the go, having a reusable water bottle with a straw promotes consumption and helps you track how much you are drinking.
