Read this article to discover the facts about water and its impact on your health that might change your perspective. You'll also find alternative sources of hydration that are beneficial for your body.
You've probably heard the age-old advice that you should drink eight glasses of water a day to maintain your health and shed those extra pounds. But is that really true? An expert from La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia, argues that this number is nothing more than a myth.
The Origin of the 8-Glass-a-Day Myth
According to Spero Tsindos of La Trobe University, the human body's fluid needs don't have to be solely met by drinking plain water. There are many other sources of fluids that can benefit your body, such as fruits, vegetables, juices, tea, and coffee. "If you're thirsty, then drink whatever is available. It doesn't have to be just water," Tsindos explained, as quoted by various Australian media outlets.
Tsindos suggests that the myth of drinking 8 glasses a day may have originated from a guideline published in the United States in 1945. This guideline stated that adults require around 2.5 liters of fluids daily but didn't clarify that a substantial portion of these fluids can come from food.
In Australia, the recommendations for daily fluid intake stand at 3.4 liters for adult men and 2.8 liters for adult women. However, these guidelines also do not differentiate between water and other fluids.
Facts About Water and Health
Tsindos also revealed some lesser-known facts about water and its impact on health, which may not be widely known:
- Drinking excess water serves no purpose as it will be excreted as urine. Regularly drinking water also lacks clear scientific basis.
- Using water as a part of a weight loss diet isn't effective unless combined with exercise or a low-calorie diet. While water can provide a temporary feeling of fullness, it cannot replace the necessary nutrients the body needs.
- While water is crucial for health, it's not the sole source of good hydration. Unsweetened tea and coffee can be beneficial due to their antioxidant and polyphenol content. Fruit juices can also provide the vitamins and minerals your body requires.
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