Many people likely don't understand that their bodies are continuously losing water, Ms. Sandon said. The body loses water in urine, in perspiration and in respiration, Ms. Sandon said. And it also is lost during digestion. For ever calorie ingested the body needs about 1.5 milliliters of water to absorb it. Even at the first sign of thirst, you're already dehydrated.
Adults sometimes believe they are getting water when they drink coffee or tea.
But caffeine has a diuretic effect and pulls water from the body, Ms. Sandon said. Even children who drink soft drinks and other beverages aren't getting enough water, she said. But we're getting properly hydrated. That's the biggest tip. Keep it handy.