Water is considered as the most essential fluid for life. Why not, more than 50 percent of the body weight is contributed by water. Water in the body helps in carrying out the biochemical reactions, delivering nutrients to the cells, hydrating the body tissues, and excreting waste materials out of the body. In brief, every system of the body depends on water for performing the normal functions. When we refer to any food and nutrition data, it often suggests us to drink 8-ounce glasses of water everyday to remain healthy and fit. But, is there any medical evidence that supports this statement? or is the daily water requirement same for both adults and children? Read on to know more about the recommended water intake per day. Some Facts ► The water intake per day recommended to stay healthy depends on various aspects, including the area you live in (either cold or hot), the level of activity you perform on a daily basis, and your overall health condition. ► Hotter the climate, the more you sweat, and consequently the higher is the amount of water that you tend to drink. Likewise, water requirement is more if you perform exercises or other activities that make you sweat. ► Health conditions that cause excessive excretion (vomiting and diarrhea) also tend to increase the water intake. There is no simple answer for how much water should an individual drink per day. However, the daily water consumption varies as per individual requirements. ► For an adult, drinking 2 liters of water along with additional liquids is sufficient for the normal functioning of the body. Whereas, the daily water requirements for children depend upon their body weight. For a child, the recommended water intake per day is the number of ounces equal to two-thirds of his/her body weight. ► The water introduced in the body is lost in various activities, such as breathing, perspiration or sweating, urination, and bowel movements. Eventually, the water level in the body gets decreased, and it needs to be replenished. So, this is how water is lost from the body, which is why we need to drink water everyday. ►As long as you drink water in an amount that's equivalent to the amount lost, your body will remain hydrated and function smoothly. The symptoms that are indicative of an adequate amount of fluid in the body are rare incidences of thirst and passing at least 1.5 liters of colorless to slightly yellowish urine per day. ► On the contrary, lack of water in the body causes dehydration, a condition in which the body cells and tissues cannot function properly. In such a condition, we feel tired very easily and the body displays a lack of activity tolerance. ► According to medical experts, we should drink water at frequent intervals and not only when we feel thirsty. As per their opinion, the body is already going through dehydration by the time people feel thirsty. Another indicator for lack of water in the body is passing of dark-colored urine. These are some of the simplest signs that reflect the fluid level in the body. Water and Foods for Hydration ► Being a zero calorie and inexpensive fluid, water is the best solution to meet the daily fluid requirements of the body. ► So, remember to keep some water within your reach every time you go out. However, it is not mandatory that you have to drink only water, in order to adhere to the daily recommended water intake amount. ► In fact, the food we eat also contributes to the bodily water level by about 20 percent. You can incorporate foods and beverages, like tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, milk, and fruit juices, etc., in order to satisfy the daily fluid requirements of the body. Always remember to consume healthy foods along with ample amounts of water and stay hydrated and healthy! Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.