Headaches, tiredness and constipation are signs of not drinking enough. We all need plenty of fluid, especially water, every day to stay feeling well and to keep your insides working. You will get some fluid from vegetables, fruit and milk (tea and coffee can be an option for adults too).
Unfortunately, while juice, soft drinks and cordials provide fluid they have a lot of sugar.
So, make tap water the main drink for the whole family: it’s freely available, looks after teeth, has no sugar and really is the best thirst quencher.
If you mostly drink sweet drinks you may not like the taste of plain water. If this is you, try getting into the water habit by grabbing water as a first choice ahead of sweet stuff. This way you can help show children water is the best choice too.
Over time, taste buds will adjust and you’ll start enjoying the taste of water. Try water cold, with ice or a slice of lemon if that helps.
Store bought bottle water is handy when you forget to take water but there’s a chance it’s not as safe as tap water, depending on its source, and it doesn’t contain fluoride to keep your teeth strong. So save your money by not buying bottled water and protect the environment by not adding to plastic waste.
How much fluid do you need
Well it depends on how active you are, your age and if you have special medical issues.
Generally, men need more water than women but we all should aim for eight to 10 cups a day – young people need four to six cups. In hot weather you may need more.
Talk to your doctor if you’re unsure of how much you should drink each day, particularly if you have medical conditions.
Here are a few tips to help you and your family develop the daily water habit:
- drink a glass of water when you get out of bed in the morning
- take a refillable water bottle with you when you go out, and pack water for the kids too
- put water on the table at mealtime.
More information for children:
Drinks for Children (MS Word)
Drinks for Children (PDF)