How much water should I drink per day?

A general guideline is to drink half your body weight in ounces. For a 160-pound person, that's about 80 ounces (10 cups) daily. However, activity level, climate, and health conditions can increase your needs.

What are signs of dehydration?

Common signs include dark yellow urine, feeling thirsty, dry mouth and lips, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and decreased urination. By the time you feel thirsty, you're already mildly dehydrated.

Does coffee and tea count toward water intake?

Yes, moderate amounts of coffee and tea do contribute to hydration. While caffeine has a mild diuretic effect, the water content still provides net hydration. However, plain water is still the best choice for optimal hydration.

Water Intake Calculator

Calculate your daily water needs for optimal hydration

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Signs of Dehydration

Dark yellow urine
Feeling thirsty
Dry mouth and lips
Headache
Fatigue or dizziness
Decreased urination

Hydration Tips

Start your day with a glass of water
Carry a reusable water bottle
Set reminders to drink throughout the day
Eat water-rich foods (cucumbers, watermelon, oranges)
Drink extra before, during, and after exercise
Limit caffeine and alcohol which can dehydrate

Did You Know?

Your body is about 60% water - your brain and heart are 73%, lungs 83%, and bones 31%.
Mild dehydration (1-2% body water loss) can reduce cognitive performance by 25%.
By the time you feel thirsty, you're already mildly dehydrated.

Created by

The Ugly Empire Team

Software engineers and data specialists with backgrounds in financial services, mathematics, and educational technology. Our team builds tools using industry-standard formulas verified against authoritative sources.

Last reviewed: January 2026

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Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results should not be considered financial, legal, medical, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals for important decisions. We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee results will match real-world outcomes due to varying factors and individual circumstances.

Water Intake Calculator

Signs of Dehydration

Hydration Tips

Did You Know?

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