Water Intake Calculator

Daily Hydration Requirement

Find out exactly how much water you should drink daily to stay healthy and hydrated.

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Average daily physical activity.

Your Hydration Goal

Enter your details to see your recommended daily water intake.

The Science of Hydration

Why is Water Intake Important?

Water makes up about 60% of your body weight and is involved in every vital function. Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature, keeps joints lubricated, prevents infections, delivers nutrients to cells, and keeps organs functioning properly. Being well-hydrated also improves sleep quality, cognition, and mood.

How Much Water Do You Really Need?

The old "8 glasses a day" rule is a simple guideline, but it doesn't account for individual differences. Your needs depend on:

  • Body Weight: Larger bodies require more water to maintain metabolic processes.
  • Activity Level: You lose significant water through sweat during exercise. For every 30 minutes of intense activity, you should add about 350ml (12 oz) of water.
  • Environment: Hot or humid weather increases sweating, while high altitudes can cause faster breathing and increased fluid loss.

Signs of Dehydration

Mild Dehydration
  • Thirst and dry mouth
  • Dark yellow urine
  • Headaches or dizziness
  • Fatigue
Severe Dehydration
  • Extreme thirst
  • Confusion or irritability
  • Very dark urine or no urination
  • Rapid heartbeat

Tips for Staying Hydrated

  1. Carry a reusable bottle: Having water with you at all times makes it easier to sip throughout the day.
  2. Set reminders: Use a phone app or alarm to remind you to drink every hour.
  3. Eat your water: Many fruits and vegetables, like watermelon and cucumbers, are over 90% water.
  4. Flavor it: If you don't like plain water, add slices of lemon, lime, or cucumber.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. While caffeine has a mild diuretic effect, the water in coffee and tea still contributes to your total daily hydration. However, plain water is still the best source.

Yes, a condition called hyponatremia can occur when you drink so much water that it dilutes the sodium in your blood. This is rare but can be dangerous. It usually only happens to endurance athletes or during extreme water-drinking contests.

The easiest way to check is the color of your urine. If it's pale yellow (like lemonade), you're likely well-hydrated. If it's dark yellow or amber, you need to drink more.

Water can aid weight loss by increasing satiety (making you feel full) and slightly boosting metabolism. Often, the brain confuses thirst with hunger, so drinking water can prevent unnecessary snacking.

All three! Drink water before you start, take small sips every 15-20 minutes during exercise, and replenish any lost fluids immediately after you finish.

Urine Color Chart

Optimal (Pale)
Hydrated (Yellow)
Dehydrated (Dark)
Severe (Amber)

Medical Disclaimer

Hydration needs vary significantly based on medical conditions (like kidney disease or heart failure). This calculator provides general estimates. Always follow the specific fluid intake advice provided by your doctor.