How Much Water Should I Drink?

Introduction

Two-thirds of every adult's body weight is made up of water. We can survive for weeks without food, but only a few days without water.

Drinking enough water is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, as it helps maintain the body and prevent disease. Even just a slight decrease in water in the body can lead to dehydration, which can cause headaches and loss of concentration.

The body gets water not only from drinks, but also through food. Some fruit and vegetables have high water content such as melons, apples, oranges, pineapples, tomatoes, carrots and grapes.

The average adult should try to drink six to eight glasses of water per day, or up to two litres. The body should also absorb extra water from a healthy diet containing fruit and vegetables.

Tips on getting enough water and avoiding dehydration:

• Try to start and end each day with a large glass of water
• Always have a jug of water on the table during meal times
• Carry a bottle of water with you whenever you go out
• Avoid soft drinks to quench thirst as they usually contain a lot of ingredients (sugar, sweeteners, colourings, etc) other than water
• Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables as they are full of water and vitamins
• When drinking alcohol, drink water between as 'spacers' to avoid dehydration
• Drink water before and during sport or exercise, as it will increase energy levels and avoid dehydration