How Much Water Should You Drink Per Day
Water is the most essential nutrient for the human body: it makes up about 60% of body weight and participates in all vital functions. Even mild dehydration (1-2% of body weight) impairs physical and cognitive performance.
How to Calculate Water Needs
The base formula is simple:
Water needs = 30-35 mL x body weight (kg)
Additional amounts are added for:
- Physical activity: +500-1500 mL depending on intensity
- Hot climate: +500-750 mL
- Breastfeeding: +700 mL
Official Recommendations
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) indicates adequate intake as:
- Adult men: 2.5 liters total/day (about 2.0 L from beverages)
- Adult women: 2.0 liters total/day (about 1.6 L from beverages)
These values include water from food, which accounts for about 20-30% of total intake.
Practical Hydration Tips
Do not wait until you feel thirsty: thirst is a late signal of dehydration. Drink regularly throughout the day, about one glass of water every hour. Always carry a bottle with you. Increase intake before, during, and after physical activity.
Urine color is the best indicator: clear and transparent indicates good hydration, dark and concentrated indicates you should drink more.