====== The Myth of 8-10 Glasses of Water per Day ======

There is a persistent recommendation on the net that people should drink 8-10 glasses of water per day; and that that water should be in the form of water and not any other kind of beverage.  This is an overestimate and misinterpretation.  The [[http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/nal_display/index.php?info_center=4&tax_level=3&tax_subject=256&topic_id=1342&level3_id=5140 | USDA Dietary Reference Intakes Tables]], in particular the [[http://www.iom.edu/Object.File/Master/20/004/0.pdf | Dietary Reference Intakes: Electrolytes and Water]] (see page 4, "Water") show a range by age for average intake for children and adults, with the comment: <b>All sources can contribute to total water needs: beverages (including tea, coffee, juices, sodas, and drinking water) and moisture found in foods.  Moisture in food accounts for about 20% of total water intake. Thirst and consumption of beverages at meals are adequate to maintain hydration.</b>.