Infographic: Are You Drinking Enough Water?

Children may be at greater risk of dehydration because they don’t always recognize the need to replenish fluids. Daphne A. Scott, MD primary care sports medicine doctor at Hospital for Special Surgery Stamford Outpatient Center, shares the best way for kids to stay hydrated in this infographic.

Hydration Tips

Drink up every day. Aim to guzzle plenty of water—anywhere from five to 11 cups per day, depending on your age and gender— every single day.

Drink more during exercising. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, drink 16 ounces of fluid two hours before physical activity, and another 8-16 ounces 15 minutes before it starts.

Skip the sweet stuff. Skip the energy drinks and the juice—when it comes to rehydrating, water is your best bet.

Don’t overdo it. It’s possible to drink too much water. Extra H2O does not help with performance, and could make you miss out on the action on the field.

Look out for signs of dehydration like dry mouth, increase in thirst, feeling tired and dizzy, dark urine, and not urinating enough. If you’re concerned about how much water your child is consuming talk to your health care provider.