Keywords: drinking water, water testing

Description: Knowing how much water to drink is important, and so is knowing if the water you need is clean and safe for consumption.

You know you need to drink water, but how much? Is 8 ounces daily still the preferred recommendation? Let’s dive in and take a closer look.

Why do you need water?

In the same way a car needs oil and coolant to work properly, you need water to keep all your moving parts in top shape. Water helps flush waste out of your system, softens bowel movements, regulates your temperature, helps reduce impacts on joints and cushions your soft tissues. Feeling thirsty means there is not enough water in your system for these, and other, important functions.

So is 8 oz a day the “magic number?”

The standard 8 oz of water daily is only a guideline and it’s not a bad one. When we keep that number in mind, we remember to drink water – and that is the main thing; remaining hydrated. However, the actual number will vary from person to person. If you eat a lot of fruit and veggies or drink tea and coffee, you are getting some hydration from that. If you are an athlete or have hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), you may require more water. Lactating and pregnant women also require more water.

Sugary soda and energy drinks can make you feel hydrated, but be careful. Your thirst is masked but you are lacking the benefits of water or unsweetened tea. If sugary beverages are part of your diet, be sure you as are still drinking enough water.

How to tell if I’m getting enough water?

If you are thirsty, you need water. If your pee is dark yellow and smelly, you need water. If you exercise and/or sweat profusely, you need water. As a general rule, drink to thirst level and remain cognizant of when you are hydrating with sugary beverages instead of water.

The problem with hard and fast rules

Did you know that you can drink too much water? It’s true! Constantly drinking water because it is healthy or because you want to hit a certain number goal can result in hyponatremia – a dangerous condition. When it comes to water intake, listen to your doctor and listen to your body.

Clean water

We have established that drinking water, in appropriate amounts, is vitally important but the quality of that water matters too. There is nothing wrong with tap and well water, as long as it is clean and safe to drink. Horror stories abound about contaminated wells or mishaps with municipal water systems. How do you know if your drinking water is clean?

The answer is water testing.

AquaKnow leverages a network of nationwide laboratories to provide fast and affordable water testing for individuals, corporations, intuitions and municipalities. Whether you want to know if your tap or well water is safe, or you want to ensure your dentistry practice or restaurant has the cleanest water for customers, we are here for you. The process is easy – contact us and select the kit you need, or talk to us about a recommendation. We have kits geared to specific containments or specific concerns (such as our City Check Standard or Prenatal Well Water Basic).

Drinking water is important but it is just as important to ensure the water you are drinking is clean and safe. Click here to learn more and to get your kit today.