how much water should you drink a day oz

The general daily recommended water intake is about 104 ounces (13 cups) for men and 72 ounces (9 cups) for women from beverages alone, according to the Institute of Medicine (IOM). Total fluid intake includes water from all beverages and food. These amounts can vary based on factors such as age, activity level, climate, and pregnancy or breastfeeding status. For example, pregnant women should aim for about 80 ounces and breastfeeding women about 104 ounces per day. Children have lower recommendations depending on their age, ranging from 40 to 88 ounces daily. Listening to your body's thirst signals and adjusting based on exercise, weather, and health conditions is also important for proper hydration.