How much water should you drink a day?

The Eatwell Guide says we should drink around 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid a day. Roughly 2 litres on any ordinary day.

We can get fluids from foods and drinks; not only water but also drinks like squash, fruit juice, soft drinks, skimmed milk) As alcohol is a diuretic, alcoholic drinks should not be considered as contributing to fluid intake.

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 or increase your risk of diabetes and obesity.

If you are exercising to the point where you are sweating then you will need to increase your fluid intake to compensate for the excess fluid loss and may want to consider an isotonic & electrolyte drink such as Bio-Synergy Pure Energy. Straw coloured pee is a good measure that you are adequately hydrated. Dark urine might mean that you are dehydrated and need to take in more fluid/water. Tea and coffee in small amounts can be considered as contributing to your daily fluid intake. Excessive tea and coffee might mean you are taking in too much caffeine. Like alcohol, caffeine is a diuretic and will cause you to pee out excessive amounts of urine which may lead to dehydration. I would recommend that you don’t rehydrate with tea and coffee after a work out.

Remember everyone’s body works differently. Some people may need to take in more fluid and some people less fluid than others dependant on any underlying medical conditions. If you are unsure at all then do speak to your doctor.

Dr Gary Bartlett NHS Doctor, Team GB Snowboarder and Bio-Synergy ambassador