If you walk around Kansas City this summer, you’ll see them everywhere: colorful, oversized, insulated tumblers. Staying hydrated is officially in, but with the trend comes a wave of misinformation. As the summer heat picks up, let’s clear the air on what your body needs.
Myth: You must drink eight glasses of water a day.
Fact: The 8x8 rule of drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day is easy to remember, but it isn't a scientific law. Your hydration needs are highly individual, based on your activity level, weight and the weather. A better gauge? Your thirst and the color of your urine (aim for pale lemonade, not apple juice).
Myth: Coffee and tea don’t count toward your total.
Fact: Good news for coffee lovers — caffeinated drinks do contribute to your fluid intake. While caffeine has a mild diuretic effect, the water in the beverage outweighs the fluid lost.
Myth: Drinking liquids is the only way to stay hydrated.
Fact: You can eat your water. Roughly 20% of your daily fluid intake comes from food. Summer favorites like watermelon and cucumbers are about 95% water. Loading up on fresh produce at a backyard BBQ is just as important as keeping your tumbler filled.
The Bottom Line:Keep that favorite water bottle handy, but don't stress reaching the perfect number. Focus on drinking consistently throughout the day and choosing water as your main source of fluids.
Get more hydration tips at nkchealth.org/Hydration.