This is by no means the golden rule, but if you lead an active lifestyle, you should drink at least half of your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, you would need to drink 100 ounces of water.
If you aren't in the gym as much, only workout once a week, or do light walking, you don't need to drink quite that much water. For example, if you were 200 pounds, you may only need to drink 60 to 75 ounces, which is a little less than half of your body weight.
It's important to get plenty of water and plenty of electrolytes, so make sure you are getting enough potassium and magnesium. Those will balance out that water and keep you feeling hydrated.
If you are chronically dehydrated, it can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to get your body back into a hydrated state. It takes a while to get your body back from where it is.
If you have any other questions about water, exercise, or nutrition, just give me a call or send me an email. I would be happy to help you!