It is generally recommended to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day. But why such a large amount? And above all, do you really have to respect this advice?
Our body is made up of approximately 60% water. Water that is gradually eliminated during the day. By urinating and sweating, we reject 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day. We must therefore compensate to allow the kidneys to function normally and our body to regulate its temperature. But these are not the only roles of the water we drink.
Maintain good blood volume
Blood carries the oxygen needed by muscles and the brain to absorb nutrients and produce the energy they need to function. “Cells and organs take in oxygen through the blood and release CO2 through respiration“, explains on its site the Water Information Center.This is why it is essential to maintain sufficient blood volume to transport the oxygen needed by the body. And since blood is 55% plasma, and plasma itself is 90% water, water makes up almost 50% of our blood..”
Good hydration also helps maintain a good level of saliva. Which facilitates the absorption of food and digestion. Let’s not forget that drinking enough water facilitates cell renewal and thus helps to maintain beautiful skin.
1.5 liters a day, really?
1.5 to 2 liters per day is of course an average. This quantity actually varies according to several criteria: the place where you live, if you practice physical activity, in the event of breastfeeding, illness, without forgetting the height and body weight… In France, we recommend therefore drink 30 mL per kilo of body weight. If you weigh 65kg, you will therefore have to drink 1.9 liters…
When should you drink?
Above all, do not wait to be thirsty to drink. “A good habit is to drink small amounts throughout the day. It is indeed preferable to drink regularly and in small sips rather than large quantities at low frequency. It is more comfortable for the stomach and digestive comfort“, concludes the Water Information Center.
To note : Dehydration is manifested by dark urine, dry mouth and throat, dizziness, fatigue or even dry skin.