Self‐reported quantity of daily water intake and urine output in healthy young

Water is an essential nutrient and adequate intake and output of water is required for health maintenance. Water homeostasis is vital for life and optimal function and considerable interest surrounds the issue of recommendations for water consumption in healthy individuals. Few studies are available about self‐reported water intake and urine output. The aim of this study was to assess the quantity of water intake and urine output in 24‐h period in healthy young individuals. This prospective study was carried out on 31 students aged 18–24 years undergoing nursing education in a University during January 2011 in Sakarya, Turkey. Healthy young individuals were recruited for determination of the quantity of water taken in and urine excretion along 24 h; they recorded fluid input and urine output. The students collected the data during weekend break. In our study, the total daily fluid intake (mL) for females was 2082·6 ± 687·1 and the total daily fluid intake (mL) for males was 2720·8 ± 717·4. The total daily quantity of urine (mL) for females was 1623·4 ± 602·4 and the total daily quantity of urine (mL) for males was 1818·3 ± 420·6. This research may be the source for similar studies that could include seasonal changes, climates, cultures and different age groups.