Water and health

Get the most out of your drinking water tap and keep hydrated

Why is it important to stay hydrated?

Water is crucial for the human body and essential for human survival.

How does the human body use water?

  • Regulating temperature
  • Removal of waste products
  • Lubricating joints and eyes
  • Aiding in digestion
  • Keeping your heart healthy

How might staying hydrated improve my life? 

  • Improves memory
  • Boosts energy and concentration
  • Aids in an all-round healthier lifestyle
  • Helps prevent heart disease and high blood pressure
  • Reduces risk of cramps and tiredness
  • Reduces the chance of kidney stones
  • Helps you stay regular

What benefits might I feel and see by staying hydrated?

  • Helps maintain healthy skin, bones, hair and nails
  • Aids in weight loss
  • Lowers stress levels
  • Helps build muscle tone
  • Nourishes skin

How much should I be drinking?

According to the NHS, people within the UK should be drinking at least 1.2 litres of water a day. The amount of water you drink depends on your age, physical activity, temperature and humidity.

How do I know if I am not drinking enough water?

Your body uses between 3-4 litres a water a day. Once you feel thirsty you are already dehydrated.

Dehydration can cause:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Tiredness
  • Loss of concentration
  • Smelly breath

Do you think you are dehydrated?

Using the ‘Wee Test’ you can detect levels of dehydration based on the colour of your urine.

  • Hydrated – Pale, odourless and plentiful
  • Dehydrated – Yellow, dark, and odorous.

Tips to stay hydrated:

  • Take a water bottle with you when you go out 
  • Add wedge of fruit to your fresh water to give it a different taste without affecting the nutritional value
  • Freeze a bottle of water over night so it stays colder for longer during the day.