Final answer:
The recommended daily water intake for normal adult function is approximately 2.5 liters, matching the average daily water output. The Institute of Medicine suggests a higher Adequate Intake of 3.7 liters for men and 2.7 liters for women, including water from all dietary sources.
Step-by-step explanation:
Daily Water Intake for Adult Health
A good estimate for the amount of water needed daily for normal function in an adult is roughly 2.5 liters or about 3 quarts. This estimate aligns with the body's average daily water output, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance. The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine recommends a slightly higher Adequate Intake (AI) of water to include dietary sources: 3.7 liters for adult males and 2.7 liters for adult females. It’s crucial for kidneys to function correctly as they regulate blood volume and water levels in the body, conserving water when dehydrated and expelling excess when needed. Furthermore, insensible water loss through the skin and respiration contributes to the total water output. To maintain hydration and proper bodily functions, the body should excrete this amount daily through urination, defecation, and sweating.