Handeware
Health

Daily water, rough guide

10.7 cup

General information only, not medical advice. It does not diagnose anything. Please talk to your doctor about your own health.

Water Intake Calculator

This gives a rough daily water figure from your body weight, using a common rule of thumb. Many things change how much you need, including heat, exercise, illness and diet.

How it works

The rule of thumb used here is about 35 millilitres of water for each kilogram of body weight, which is a little over half a fluid ounce per pound. The result is shown in cups or litres.

The figure is a total for drinks, and food also supplies some water. It is a starting point for thinking about intake, not a required target.

Worked example

For a body weight of 160 lb, the rule of thumb gives about 10.7 cup of water a day.

Questions

Does this include food?

The figure is a guide for all fluids. Many people also get some water from food, so the amount you need from drinks alone can be lower.

Should I drink more in heat or when I exercise?

Often, yes. Heat, sweat and exercise raise needs. Pay attention to thirst and to your doctor's advice, especially if you have a health condition.

Is this medical advice?

No. It is a general rule of thumb. Ask a doctor about fluids if you have kidney, heart or other conditions.

More like this

All Health calculators