Most of us don’t drink nearly enough water, but it is so freely available that there is really no excuse for not doing so. Presently, the recommendation is to drink eight glasses of water a day – and more, if you live in a hot country. If you drink only when you are thirsty, then the chances are that your body will already be dehydrated. Not drinking enough water can bring symptoms like headaches and a lessening of your mental ability. It can make you feel tired and listless and dries out your skin and your joints. It can also be a major cause of constipation.

Hunger often gets confused with thirst, so if you are hungry have a glass of water instead of having something to eat. Your body also retains more water if you drink often and in small measures. It retains less if you drink it with tea or coffee, or sugary drinks.

Here are some ideas to help you increase your water intake:

• Start each morning with a glass of fresh water when you get up.

• During exercise, drink some water at 10 to15 minute intervals.

• Always drink water when you are drinking alcohol.

• If you are still drinking tea and coffee in cafés, ask for a glass of water to go with it.

• Have a glass of water with each meal.

• Whenever you leave the house, always carry a bottle filled with filtered water.

These are just a few ways to take some more water in your diet. I am sure that you will have your own ideas, so if it can help us with our water intake, please let us know.

Below is a short video on the benefits of your water intake.