What is the scientific basis for the Hydration Calculator?
The U.S. Adequate Intake (AI) recommendations for water established by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in 2004 are the basis for the Hydration Calculator estimates of basic (non-exercise related) daily hydration needs. This output reflects the amount of water, derived from food and beverages in the diet, that the IOM believes will ensure adequate hydration for most healthy inactive individuals living in moderate climates in the U.S. Those who live in hot climates may need more. Results from the second section of the Hydration Calculator, which estimates hydration needs related to physical activity, are based on a formula developed by the BIHW in collaboration with leading U.S. sports hydration experts and draws from physical activity and hydration research. Because a great deal of published research exists in the area of hydration and sports performance, this formula includes a number of exercise-related factors that are known to impact hydration needs, including age, weight, exercise
