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 USDA Dietary Reference Intakes Tables, in particular the 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>.