» More: What’s in your water?

How much water should a person drink a day?

It all depends.

Outside temperature, individual body size and activity are all factors, says Bloomington Hospital dietitian Stacey Matavuli.

A good general rule to follow is 64 ounces a day.

Your body will let you know how much you need. Thirst and the color of your urine — light yellow or clear — are keys in regulating water consumption, according to Matavuli.

And it is possible — though very rare — to consume too much. We’re talking gallons upon gallons, not ounces. Water intoxication happens when all that water is retained and can’t be excreted. What potentially can happen, Matavuli says, is water will move into blood cells and affects the brain.