Stay Hydrated

More than H20

More than half of your body is made up of water, so it’s important that you get enough fluids every day to replace the water you lose through normal bodily functions. Water is lost constantly through sweat, urine, faeces and even through your breath.

Ensuring you’re adequately hydrated every day is important for overall good health.

Water lubricates and cushions your joints, aids digestion, prevents constipation, keeps your temperature normal and helps maintain your blood pressure. When you’re not getting enough water, your body can’t work as well as it should. This can make it harder for you to deal with other health issues, including persistent pain.

The amount of water you need each day varies from person to person and from day to day. There’s no ‘one size fits all’. Factors such as your age, gender, health and environment will affect how much water you’ll need. You’ll notice that you drink more in warmer weather, and when you’re physically active, compared to the amount you drink when you’re sitting at home on a winter’s night.

You can get your daily water requirement by drinking water, but also through other drinks (e.g. fruit juice, milk, herbal tea) and through some of your foods (e.g. soups and watery foods such as celery and melons).

Alcohol and drinks containing caffeine (e.g. coffee, tea, cola) are diuretics. This means they make you go to the toilet more frequently and lose water through urine. You should try to consume these in moderation. If you’re concerned that you’re not getting enough water, or you’re not sure how much water is right for you, talk with your doctor.

Personal perspectives

I used to find it hard to drink enough water…but I now carry a refillable water bottle with me everywhere I go. You see lots of people doing this – I think we’re now all aware of how important it is to keep hydrated. – Ryan

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