Most of us don’t, and as we get older we get worse. Those with dementia, diabetes and kidney conditions are most at risk but we could all do with being more aware of what we drink and the pitfalls of not drinking enough. Let’s face it, water is a healthy and cheap choice for quenching your thirst at any time. It has no calories and contains no sugars that can damage teeth. Mild dehydration can make us feel tired and affect our memory and concentration. Common complications associated with dehydration include low blood pressure, dizziness, increased risk of falls, and urinary and kidney conditions. The recommended fluid intake is six to eight glasses of fluid each day, and more if the weather is hot as it is currently, so it’s a good idea to make sure you’ve always got a glass of water in front of you. If you do find drinking that much tricky then soup and fresh fruit are good ways to keep hydrated in addition to drinks. Plain tea, fruit tea and coffee (without added sugar) can also be healthy. If you don’t like the taste of plain water, try sparkling water or add a slice of lemon or lime. Or heat the water and infuse a tea bag, some coffee or a slice of lemon. You could also add some no-added-sugar squash or fruit juice for flavour
Check if you’re dehydrated
Symptoms of dehydration in adults and children include:
- feeling thirsty
- dark yellow and strong smelling pee
- feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- feeling tired
- dry mouth, lips and eyes
- peeing little, and fewer than 4 times a day
Dehydration can happen more easily if you have:
- diabetes
- vomiting or diarrhoea
- been in the sun too long (heatstroke)
- drunk too much alcohol
- sweated too much after exercising
- a high temperature of 38C or more
- been taking medicines that make you pee more (diuretics)
Cheers!