Staying hydrated during the summer is essential, but the commonly followed rule of drinking eight glasses of water a day may not be suitable for everyone. Experts now suggest that hydration needs vary from person to person and should not be based on a fixed formula.
Dehydration can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, fatigue, excessive sleepiness, and mood swings. Over time, it may also impact overall health. While many people aim to drink around 2 to 2.5 litres of water daily — roughly equivalent to eight glasses — experts advise a more personalized approach.
Why Proper Hydration Matters
Water plays a vital role in the body by flushing out toxins, supporting kidney function, and transporting nutrients and oxygen to cells. It also helps regulate body temperature, which becomes especially important during hot weather. Maintaining the right hydration level ensures smooth functioning of bodily systems.
Is the ‘8 Glasses a Day’ Rule Accurate?
According to senior dietitian Geetika Chopra, the idea of drinking exactly eight glasses of water daily is a misconception. Individual water requirements depend on factors such as body weight, height, activity level, and climate. Both insufficient and excessive water intake can be harmful.
What Happens If You Drink Too Much Water?
If a person consumes more water than their body actually needs, it can lead to overhydration. Experts warn that this may cause bloating, a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, and general discomfort. In extreme cases, excessive water intake can disturb the body’s electrolyte balance.
How to Stay Properly Hydrated
Rather than strictly following a fixed number, experts recommend listening to your body’s signals, such as thirst. Along with drinking water, including water-rich foods in your diet can significantly improve hydration levels.
Hydrating Foods and Drinks to Include
Foods like cucumber and radish, which contain around 95% water, are excellent choices. Other beneficial options include tomatoes, lettuce, bottle gourd, ridge gourd, and tinda. In addition, drinks such as lemon water, buttermilk, coconut water, and fresh fruit juices can help maintain hydration.
