With many forming ambitious New Year’s resolutions, one to consider is the benefit of drinking lots of water. With the human body being composed of nearly 60 percent water, it is crucial to stabilize and maintain it. Healthline shares that drinking an appropriate amount of water can help improve mental and physical performance. Similarly, WebMD adds that water allows your kidneys to operate helping you to digest properly. On the other hand, a lack of water can result in unbalanced body temperature, reduced motivation, and increased fatigue.

Although many believe the more water the better, there are specific ounce recommendations based on weight and gender. According to WebMD, you should drink half an ounce to an ounce of water for every pound you weigh. If you live in a warmer climate you would be on the higher end of the range. For example, if you weighed 120 lbs. you would be recommended to drink anywhere from 60-120 ounces a day. Another theory believes that teenagers should consume half a cup to two cups of water every 20 minutes. As long as you are consuming at least half your weight in water, you are meeting your body’s needs.

Drinking an appropriate amount of water is a healthy habit that will benefit your mind and health.