We’ve all heard them. All of the myths, stories, and instructions about drinking water. How much you need to drink. When you need to drink it and what you need to drink. We’ve done some research for you and here are the top five myths about drinking water.
Myth # 1: You need to drink eight eight-ounce glasses of water each day.
Every body is different and how much water you need to function at your best varies based on a whole host of factors including your size, your weight, how active you are and even the climate you live in and the temperature that day.
Myth # 2: Only water counts.
Nope. The hydration you get from fruit, vegetables, and even coffee counts. According to the Mayo Clinic, about 20% of most people’s water intake comes from food.
Myth # 3: Speaking of coffee, coffee dehydrates you.
Coffee drinkers rejoice -- the most current research shows that drinking coffee (or tea) will not dehydrate you! It turns out that the very mild diuretic effect of coffee or tea is more than set off by the amount of liquid you will be drinking. So yup, coffee, and tea count!
Myth # 4: You need sports drinks to stay hydrated.
No again. Most sports drinks contain water plus electrolytes and carbohydrates, and unless you are exercising for an extended period time at a high level of intensity, water will do you just fine, so save the money and the calories.
Myth # 5: Thirst is the best indication that you need to drink.
Yes and no. Your body is pretty smart and if you are attuned to its messages, then drinking when you are thirsty will help you stay hydrated. However, especially in adults over 50, research suggests that your thirst sensor might not be as reliable as one would hope. And for many, that thirst sensor is pretty subtle and easy to miss with all of the distractions of our days. So yup, drink frequently throughout the day and don’t wait until you feel thirsty.