As people age, they begin to recognize thirst less effectively. However, dehydration can be particularly dangerous for older adults.
The advice to drink enough water may seem clichéd and trivial, but the fact remains: without a proper hydration regimen, good well-being can be forgotten.
The human body is made up of approximately 50-70% water. Dehydration can quickly exhaust the body. But how much do you actually need to drink to stay healthy and energized? The answer to this question may not be as obvious as you think.
Average Figures
If we simplify it, an adult typically needs between 1.5 to 2 liters of fluid a day. This includes both plain water and the water found in vegetables and fruits, tea, soups, and coffee.
However, more precise values can vary depending on your gender, age, and lifestyle.
How to Tell If You Are Drinking Too Little
There is a noticeable sign that indicates you clearly need to start drinking more water. Pay attention to the color of your urine. If it is dark, you are not drinking enough.
Children Aged 4 to 8: 1.2 L
The hydration regimen for children is usually managed by parents. It is important to ensure that your child receives about 1.2 liters of water a day.
As Dr. Jonathan Webster notes, at this age, the body continues to develop, and the amount of water consumed plays a significant role in brain function, the digestive system, and body temperature regulation.
At this age, children do not always recognize thirst, so it is important for parents to encourage them to drink regularly.
Teenagers: 1.6 to 1.9 L for Boys and 1.5 L for Girls
Teenagers have a particularly high need for water. During this crucial growth period, their hydration needs increase. A proper hydration regimen is necessary to maintain teenagers' energy, healthy metabolism, and muscle function.
During this period, gender differences also start to play an important role: boys need slightly more water than girls.
Adults Under 60: 1.6 L for Women and 2 L for Men
For adults, water is no less important. However, their needs are more individual and can vary depending on the weather, diet, and level of physical activity.
When to Drink More:
- during pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- during workouts or heavy labor;
- in hot weather;
- when you are sick, suffering from fever or vomiting.
Adults Over 60: 1.6 to 2 L
Older adults feel thirst less acutely. However, water at this age helps maintain joint health and normal digestion.
Therefore, older adults should carefully monitor their water intake and develop the habit of always keeping a glass at hand, writes Metro.
