Many of us fail to drink enough, which leaves us feeling slow
and sluggish and you may mistake hunger for thirst, reaching for
some food when your body is actually craving something to drink.
Staying well hydrated is very important, particularly in hot
climates or when you are physically active.
Here are some simple ways to help ensure you stay well
hydrated.
Drink little and often
Rather than glugging a huge glass of water and running straight
to the loo, try to take regular, small drinks throughout the
day.
Check the colour of your pee
It sounds odd, but looking at your pee is one of the easiest
ways to see if you are dehydrated. Aim for your urine to be a pale
straw colour. If it is a darker yellow, you need to be drinking a
bit more.
Vary your drinks
Tea and coffee does count towards your fluid intake but try to
include or swap with other drinks, such as water, herbal or fruit
teas, diluted fruit juice and sugar free squashes.
Drink little and often
If you feel thirsty then you are already dehydrated. The
sensation of being thirsty can be slow to kick in, so think about
times of day when you feel thirsty; try to anticipate these and
drink more.
Take it to bed
Have a glass of water next to the bed and take sips if you wake
up during the night.
Losing fluids
You are likely to lose more fluids if you are spending the day
in an air-conditioned office or car; traveling on hot public
transport; spending a day outside in the heat; or being active in
the garden or house. Try to remember to drink a little more than
usual on these days.
Give it some flavour
Try adding ice to your water or keep it chilled in the fridge.
Why not add a splash of sugar free squash and drink it out of a
wine glass - it's amazing how good non- alcoholic drinks can
taste!