The 2-Liter Water Hoax: Debunking the Myth and Understanding Its Risks For decades, health advice across the globe has echoed a common refrain: “Drink at least 2 liters (or 8 glasses) of water every day.” This recommendation has become so deeply entrenched in popular health culture that it’s seldom questioned. However, recent research and expert analyses reveal that this claim is largely a myth—one that may even be harmful if blindly followed. Where Did the 2-Liter Rule Come From? The origins of the “2-liter rule” are murky but often traced back to a 1945 recommendation by the U.S. Food and Nutrition Board. The board stated that “a suitable allowance of water for adults is 2.5 liters daily in most instances.” However, it also mentioned that much of this water is contained in the food we eat—something that was conveniently forgotten or ignored in later interpretations. Over time, the message became oversimplified, morphing into a blanket prescription: drink 2 liters of water per day, regardless of individual…