How much water should you drink every day

Water is your body's principal chemical component and a natural detoxifier but not many are aware about how much water should we ideally drink everyday. Moreover, the popular 8 by 8 rule which says that one should drink eight glasses, each consisting of eight ounce of water, may not suit every individual. Says nutritionist Venu Adhiya Hirani, "While the general belief is to drink eight to 10 glasses of water, it is advisable to drink 12 to 15 glasses of fluids which includes water, tea, buttermilk, soup, etc. This would amount to an intake of around 2.5 litres of fluids everyday."

Drink according to lifestyle

one's lifestyle plays an important role in deciding the amount of water that one should consume. "If you have a sedentary lifestyle and work in an air-conditioned environment where there is no scope for water loss via sweat, drinking more than 2 to 2.5 litres of water is not advisable. It will end up accumulating in your kidney and cause edema," says Krishnan. For moderate workers like salespersons, who are required to do physical activity, it is important to drink around three litres of water.

Water consumption during summers

Also, it is necessary to change water consumption habits with the change in seasons. For instance, it is important to keep oneself hydrated during summers. "If you do not suffer from diabetes or blood pressure, you can have electrolyte or glucose water or drink nimbu paani. It is not only refreshing but also increases your energy levels," says Krishnan. Moreover, it is important to drink maximum amount in the morning. Hirani says, "After waking up, it is important to drink around two to four glasses of water within the early part of the day. You could also add some amount of lemon, honey and cinnamon in it."

Your water guide

- Drink around two to four glasses of water (roughly amounting to 800 ml) after waking up

- If you work in an airconditioned environment and follow a sedentary lifestyle, do not drink more than 2 to 2.5 litres of water per day

- For moderate workers, for instance salespersons, it is important to drink around three litres of water

- During summers, keep yourself hydrated by drinking water at regular intervals. If you don't suffer from diabetes or blood pressure, having electrolyte or glucose water is also advisable