Adults need to drink at least 1.5 litres of fluid a day! Or more if it’s very hot or they are physically active. Water is the best source, of course, and we can use tap or mineral water, sparkling or non-sparkling, plain or flavoured. Fruit juices, tea, soft drinks, milk and other drinks, can all be okay – from time to time as doing this will help your entire body system to function effectively such as your respiratory system, circulatory system, excretory system and digestive system.What are the 5 top health benefits of drinking water?1. May improve memory and moodResearch has shown that even mild dehydration may impair memory and mood in everyone from children to the elderly. Hydration impacts the brain, as well as the body, and research has shown that even mild dehydration may have a negative impact on moods and may heighten anxiety. A lack of water may also increase the risk of a headache or migraines in some individuals.2. May aid weight maintenanceThe brain can’t actually tell the difference between hunger and thirst, so often we mistake thirst as a ‘sugar craving’. The next time you feel the need for something sweet, try a glass of water first. Staying hydrated may also help with weight maintenance. Research has shown that having water before a meal may fill you up more and therefore promote weight loss through suppressing your appetite. This was also noted in a 2015 study in which diet drinks were swapped for water. The results showed this may lead to greater reduction in weight and improved insulin resistance.3. May improve exercise performanceThere has been a lot of research into the effects of hydration or dehydration in athletes, and the results all pretty much conclude that dehydration not only affects sports performance but also physiological function too.4. May prevent constipationWater helps to ‘keep things moving’ in the digestive system, so staying hydrated may help prevent constipation in children, adults and the elderly. There is some evidence that fizzy water may be of particular benefit too.5. May support the health of the urinary systemPoor hydration may increase the risk of developing, or the recurrence of kidney stones, in some individuals. Studies have also shown that drinking adequate amounts of water may reduce the risk of bladder infections and urinary tract infections, including cystitis, in women.
