Drink more if: you just exercised, it’s hot outside, you’re nursing a hangover, or you ate a salty meal (RIP, popcorn). Also, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, your body is basically a water park—drink up.
Drink less if: you’re about to sleep (unless you love midnight bathroom trips), or you have certain medical conditions (check with your doctor—they know your plumbing better than I do).
Hydration 101: How Much Water Should You Drink Each Day?
And never chug a gallon in an hour. That can actually kill you by diluting your salt levels. It’s called water intoxication, and it’s as fun as it sounds—which is to say, not fun at all. Moderation, people. Even with water.
The Bottom Line (Because You’re Busy)
The average person drinks somewhere between 4 to 11 cups of plain water a day, depending on the study and the day of the week. But the real average? You. Just drink when you’re thirsty, eat your veggies, and look at your pee once in a while. That’s it.
Don’t overthink it. Your body isn’t a math problem. It’s a friendly organism that just wants a sip now and then. And if you forget? Drink some water right now. I’ll wait.
Glug glug glug. Good job.
