Social media has spread some fun dance trends, but it has also spread a lot of anxiety. One common example is the fear of dehydration.
Most people spend their days in climate-controlled spaces, exercise a few times a week, and eat regular meals that include drinks. For many healthy individuals, it is unlikely that they will become severely dehydrated. Yet, you might see people constantly refilling large water bottles as if they had just crossed a desert.
There is no strict scientific rule that everyone needs to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. In fact, hydration needs vary from person to person. Many healthy people who are not very active don’t need excessive fluid intake. Food also provides a meaningful amount of water, especially fruits and vegetables.
That said, some populations do need to pay closer attention to hydration. Athletes, people who are sick, older adults, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with certain health conditions should consult doctors about hydration requirements. Hydration comes from water, fruits, vegetables, and even caffeine-containing beverages. Climate also matters. In hot weather, drinking more fluids helps prevent heat-related illness.
Everybody is different. Health professionals often recommend drinking small amounts of fluids throughout the day, rather than large amounts at once.
Listen to your body and drink when you feel thirsty. Because older adults may have a reduced sense of thirst, and anyone preparing for strenuous exercise should hydrate ahead of time, tools like marked water bottles can serve as helpful reminders.
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