Because it is so important to our health that we all avoid dehydration, let’s review the many health benefits of consuming enough fluids every day.

Water is the principal fluid in the human body and makes up about 60 percent of the body weight of an adult. Every system in our body needs water to function properly. For example, water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to our cells and provides a healthy moist environment for our entire body, including our lungs, muscles, eyes, ears, mouth, throat, digestive system and nearly all body tissues.

A lack of water leads to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you feel tired and puts you more at risk for illness. When fighting infection or illness, drinking lots of water helps your immune system get rid of the infection and heal your tissues.

How much water does a healthy average adult need on a daily basis? We lose water every day by breathing, sweating, physical activity, exercising, passing urine and having bowel movements. For your body systems to continue to function properly, you must stay hydrated. Again, remember that the human body is about 60 percent water.

Unless you are on a fluid restriction from your health care provider, it is recommended that we all drink about 60 ounces of fluid every day. This rule does not mean this fluid intake has to be only water, because juice, coffee, tea and others count toward the daily total.

Here is my “Super Sixty” rule to get our 60 ounces of fluid every day. I recommend that we all have a 12-ounce glass of water or other fluid with our breakfast, lunch and dinner. Then, in between your breakfast and lunch (mid-morning) and in between lunch and dinner (mid-afternoon), have another 12 ounces of fluid.

By not drinking too much fluid after your evening meal, you may reduce your need to get up to urinate during the night. Further, drinking the 12 ounces of fluid with every meal will help your digestion and can also help you eat less if you wish to maintain or lose weight.

The above Surrell “Super Sixty” rule will generally allow you to meet your daily fluid requirements, and you will feel so much better. Your body will thank you for maintaining healthy and proper hydration.

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Unless you are on a fluid restriction from your health care provider, it is recommended that we all drink about 60 ounces of fluid every day. This rule does not mean this fluid intake has to be only water, because juice, coffee, tea and others count toward the daily total.

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