A.
The human body comprises around two thirds water, so ensuring a regular supply is essential. It is involved in nearly every bodily process including digestion, absorption, circulation, excreting waste material out of the body and reducing the risk of toxins building up in the bloodstream. Every cell, tissue and organ needs water to function properly.
During daily activities and through bodily functions, daily water loss can be between 1 – 1.5 litres, and replacing these lost fluids is essential if the body is to be kept in balance and in particular if we are exercising and sweating. Dehydration is a common cause of health complaints such as headaches, mood swings, constipation, dry skin, lethargy, fatigue and lack of concentration. It is often mistaken for hunger and there is increasing evidence that it is a contributing factor in more major ailments.
Try and drink at least 1.5 to 2 litres of still water, which is only six - eight 250ml glasses spread throughout the whole day, although it should be pointed out that we do obtain water from foods, especially fruit and vegetables. Don’t drink too much at once as valuable nutrients can be washed through without absorption. Our stomach needs to be lubricated, not flooded and by consuming too much at once the body will not use most of the water.
A mug of hot water on its own, or with squeezed lemon juice is great first thing in the morning. A good quality herbal tea, without any additives or flavourings, count towards your daily water quota.