We don’t drink enough water. Despite the fact that adequate levels of hydration are essential for normal bodily function and the known benefits of adequate hydration, many people still may not drink enough fluids.
- In France, 70% of the population drink less than 1.5 litres per day.
- A UK survey demonstrated that 40% of 11-18 year-old children are drinking less than 1.2 litres per day.
Children can be at greater risk than adults of feeling the effects of not drinking enough because of their smaller size and one study has shown that it is not uncommon for school children to go 6 or 7 hours without a single drink.
Elderly people often have a decreased sensation of thirst, which can lead to a higher risk of dehydration.
Evidence is increasing that even mild dehydration plays a role in the development of various diseases. Disorders of the urinary system in particular are increasing, even in young people.
Water: The Healthiest Choice for Hydration
Simple changes in hydration habits may help prevent weight gain. The key approach is to reduce calories from beverages by drinking more water. Benefits of water inlcude:
- Water has no sugar, no additives and no calories and is not acidified.
- Drinking water is not associated with weight gain or metabolic disorders.
- Water is an essential macronutrient – recommending 1.5 to 2 litres of water daily is the simplest and healthiest hydration advice you can give.
For more information on hydration and it´s effects on obesity, kidney stones, sport, physical stress, pregnancy & lactation and more, visit http://www.h4hinitiative.com/
To calculate if you are drinking enough (or even too much!) click on the link below and take a few moments to add a few details about yourself.
http://www.healthyhydrationcoach.com/calculator/
Article taken in part from http://www.h4hinitiative.com/
Disclaimer
All content on this website is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Always consult your own GP if you’re in any way concerned about your health.
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