Are You Drinking Enough Water?

Feeling dehydrated or thirsty is one thing, but when it comes to drinking water, should you rely solely on your instincts?

Some experts feel that you should mechanically drink a minimum amount of water, however you are feeling (at least around 1.2 litres per day, equivalent to around 6-8 normal glasses). However, you will know you are seriously short of water if you experience the following: extreme thirst, dark urine, irritability, headaches and other issues.

Our bodies are more than 70% water and there is both anecdotal and scientific evidence that water helps to prevent and cure certain health problems (please do your own research on this). Amongst the many health functions of water are that it helps get rid of toxins and also helps your blood carry nutrients around your body.

Here are some ideas on how to make sure you achieve your daily “quota” of water:

Keep water with you and always have an “emergency” reserve. Aim to measure the amount of water you drink and you’ll find you naturally shoot for and achieve the daily target levels. Always keep water within arm’s reach at work or during a long journey.
Drink healthy diluted drinks or add fruit slices for variety. For example, some people find that drinking a glass of water with lemon has digestive benefits. Avoid sugary drinks though, even if they contain water.
Avoid drinks that dehydrate e.g. coffee. Herbal or natural teas (without caffeine) on the other hand may be counted as part of your healthy water intake.
Convince your company to put in a water cooler at work, especially in a typically dehydrating office environment. Several well-established companies can manage this for you cost-effectively.
Drink even more water when active. Water evaporates through breathing and perspiration and needs continuous replacement. This is especially the case in warmer climates or during summer.
Eat water-rich foods. Watermelons (92% water) are an obvious example. A tomato is also more than 90% water.
Keep water at the right temperature for you. Some people like to drink it at room temperature, others chilled. Store it correctly and you’re more likely to drink more.

Finally, it is thought that drinking ample water helps increase your metabolism, which is why it is often considered an important part of a calorie-controlled diet. Many people find that drinking ample water makes them feel full and less inclined to munch on unhealthy snacks.

Disclaimer. This article is for general information only. We cannot be held responsible for any actions you might take as a result of it. Please seek medical advice before making any significant change to your habits or lifestyle.