The general daily water intake recommendations in ounces are as follows:
- Men (19 and older): About 104 to 131 ounces per day (roughly 13 cups) of fluids from beverages is recommended, with total fluid intake (including food) around 130 ounces
- Women (19 and older): About 72 to 95 ounces per day (9 cups) of fluids from beverages, with total fluid intake around 95 ounces per day
- Pregnant women: Approximately 80 ounces (10 cups) per day from drinks
- Breastfeeding women: Around 104 ounces (13 cups) per day from drinks
- Children: Intake varies by age, for example:
- Ages 4-8: 40 ounces (5 cups)
- Ages 9-13: 56-64 ounces (7-8 cups)
- Ages 14-18: 64-88 ounces (8-11 cups)
These values are general guidelines and individual needs vary based on factors like activity level, climate, body size, and health status. Physically active people or those in hot climates may require more water
. A practical rule of thumb sometimes used is to drink about 0.5 to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily-for example, a 175-pound person might aim for 90 to 175 ounces, adjusted for activity and conditions
. In summary, aiming for about 72-130 ounces of water daily for adults is a sound guideline, with adjustments for personal factors. Drinking when thirsty and maintaining consistent hydration throughout the day is also recommended
