Water & Electrolytes
In our Stanley cup obsessed society, it’s easy to wonder just how much water we actually need. We are bombarded with messages about hydration these days, but it can be quite confusing, especially when we layer in questions about electrolytes that have become quite popular these days.
How much water do I need?
In general, most folks can drink water to thirst. There are exceptions for the elderly and endurance athletes. You can generally use your thirst and your urine color as a guide. Generally, drink to quench your thirst, and assess your hydration by looking for urine that is pale yellow. In general, the commonly known guideline of 8 cups of water a day is a great place to start from, with some folks needing less, and some needing more. You might need more if you are exercise a lot, are in hot environments, if you are ill, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some elderly individuals lose sensitivity of their thirst and can be prone to dehydration. In addition to water, you can also get fluids from the foods and other beverages that you eat.
Do I need to add electrolytes?
This has been an increasingly popular topic and, in general, most people probably don’t need to add electrolytes to their water. Most people get enough sodium and other electrolytes in their diet, and excessive sodium can increase your blood pressure. However, there are some circumstances where some individuals might want to add electrolytes to their water, including endurance athletes or others such as outdoor laborers who are sweating a lot, particularly in hot or humid conditions, or individuals who are losing a lot of water through illness.
Here are three great articles on hydration to answer more of your questions:
This article is not intended to serve as medical advice. You should always consult with your doctor or a registered dietician regarding the best decisions for you.
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