Many studies have shown we actually do need at least 8 glasses of water a day. But here's the catch…that requisite intake is satisfied not only from drinking water, but also from other fluids we consume, the food we eat and the metabolic processes required to break down that food. Juice and milk contribute to hydration. Alcoholic beverages do not count towards the eight glasses because they have dehydrating effects. Try to choose decaffeinated beverages over caffeinated ones. The fluid from food and its accompanying metabolic action alone can account for as much as six glasses of water! Water is the best fluid - no argument there.

Okay, so we all know that water is good for us and that we should drink plenty of it. Exactly how much water we need, however, has been the subject of much debate, and remains an enigma to this day.

Remember that the general recommendation of eight glasses of water a day may vary widely depending on different factors, including body size, climate and environment, as well as living habits and activity levels.

Hydration tips

*Start the day with a cup of hot water with a good squeeze of fresh lemon
*Start lunch or dinner with a bowl of soup.
*Keep packaged water handy when you are out.
*Enjoy decaffeinated teas or coffees
*Take time out with a friend to share a beverage.
*Cool off on a hot day with some sorbet.
*Drink milk, juice, or water during or before meals, when you're hungry, rather than afterwards, when you're already full.
*Don't forget to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables as these have high water content and will contribute to your daily water intake.
The body’s requirement of water increases in the following situations:
*During exercise
*When the weather is warm
*When on a high fibre diet
*When on weight loss regime. Some people worry that if they drink too much water they'll get bloated. This really isn't true — your body only stores as much water as it needs; the rest, it dumps out.

The author is Chief Dietitian, Sagar Apollo Hospital, Bangalore.