Optimal water intake
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Optimal water intake depends on several factors, including activity levels and environmental conditions. Here are key pointers from :
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Baseline Hydration: For the first 10 hours of your day, consume about 8 ounces (240 ml) of fluid per hour. This totals to approximately 80 ounces (2.4 liters) per day for those initial hours 1.
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Exercise Hydration: During exercise, the "Galpin equation" is used. Divide your body weight in pounds by 30 to get the number of ounces of fluid you should drink every 15-20 minutes. For the metric system, drink about 2 ml of water per kilogram of body weight every 15-20 minutes 2 3.
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Adjustments for Heat: If exercising in a hot environment or sweating excessively, increase fluid intake by 50% to 100% of the Galpin equation values. A hot sauna session, for instance, would require about 16 ounces of fluid every 20-30 minutes 4.
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Electrolyte Balance: Include electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium in your fluids, especially if consuming caffeine or participating in prolonged physical activities. This prevents dilution of blood sodium levels, a condition known as hyponatremia, which can be dangerous 4 5.
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Morning Hydration: Start your day by drinking a substantial amount of water (approximately 16 ounces or more, scaled up based on body size) to kickstart your hydration, but avoid excessive rapid consumption to prevent quick expulsion 6.
By following these guidelines, you can maintain optimal hydration, enhance performance, and avoid dehydration or overhydration issues.
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