It is extremely important to maintain your fluid intake, as you need to keep your body hydrated at all times. If you don't drink enough water you will start to dehydrate and you body cannot function properly as your body needs water to survive.
Although water is the best way to stay hydrated not everyone can drink lots of water so there are other drinks that will also keep you hydrated, including fruit juice, milk, herbal tea and some sports drinks (although these may contain high levels of sugar & caffeine).
A good rule of thumb is 6 - 8 glasses a day. By not drinking enough you will become dehydrated and you are likely to feel tired, dizzy and light headed, with a lack of concentration and, of course, feeling thirsty. Do not wait until your mouth is dry before you have a drink, chances are you are already dehydrated. Be aware that fizzy drinks are very high in sugar and caffeine.
Another sign of dehydration is your urine will be darker in color and have quite a strong odor and can also trigger a water infection. You will need to drink more than normal especially if you are pregnant or breast feeding, exercising or on a diet.
Drinking plenty of water can actually help weight loss as it takes away hunger pangs. Remember to drink more when it is a hot day as you will lose fluids due to perspiring. If you are exercising and become dehydrated it can cause muscle cramps which can be extremely painful and dangerous, especially when running. If you are unwell it is extremely important to keep hydrated. You can actually survive without food for a while but water is essential to keep your body functioning properly.
Always remember to carry a small bottle of water with you at all times.
Although water is the best way to stay hydrated not everyone can drink lots of water so there are other drinks that will also keep you hydrated, including fruit juice, milk, herbal tea and some sports drinks (although these may contain high levels of sugar & caffeine).
A good rule of thumb is 6 - 8 glasses a day. By not drinking enough you will become dehydrated and you are likely to feel tired, dizzy and light headed, with a lack of concentration and, of course, feeling thirsty. Do not wait until your mouth is dry before you have a drink, chances are you are already dehydrated. Be aware that fizzy drinks are very high in sugar and caffeine.
Another sign of dehydration is your urine will be darker in color and have quite a strong odor and can also trigger a water infection. You will need to drink more than normal especially if you are pregnant or breast feeding, exercising or on a diet.
Drinking plenty of water can actually help weight loss as it takes away hunger pangs. Remember to drink more when it is a hot day as you will lose fluids due to perspiring. If you are exercising and become dehydrated it can cause muscle cramps which can be extremely painful and dangerous, especially when running. If you are unwell it is extremely important to keep hydrated. You can actually survive without food for a while but water is essential to keep your body functioning properly.
Always remember to carry a small bottle of water with you at all times.
