It is common knowledge that water is vital to all life forms. However, according to Green Water Technologies, people’s water requirements change as they age. Further, women who are pregnant and/or breast-feeding will need to consume considerably more water during this time.
Green Water Technologies reports that babies typically do not need to drink water. Instead, they receive hydration from breast milk or formula. There is not a standard water intake recommendation for children the age of four.
From ages 4 to 8, Green Water Technologies notes the children require about 40 ounces of water each day. This amount may be slightly less or slightly more depending on the child’s size and activity level. From age 9 through 13, water intake should increase by about 16 to 24 total ounces every 24 hours. By the time children reach their teen years, their water intake will hover somewhere between 8 and 11 cups, or 64 and 88 ounces.
Green Water Technologies notes that adult men and adult women have different water intake needs. Men, whose bodies are typically larger, may find they feel their best when they consume approximately 13 eight-ounce cups of water every day; women require just 9 cups, or 72 ounces. This changes during pregnancy when women should up their water intake by at least 8 ounces. Breastfeeding mothers should drink as much water as an adult man.
Factors that affect water consumption needs include exercise, overall health, and physical size. Green Water Technologies reports that people who live in warmer climates may also have higher hydration needs than those who live in cooler areas. During the summer, most people will need more water and should keep themselves hydrated, especially during the hottest part of the day and when they are outdoors.
