A fact sheet handout about the importance of water
| Why Drink Water?
* Your body is 60% water, every cell needs water to function * Regulates body temperature * Carries nutrients to cells * Helps flush out waste * Protects organs * Lubricates joints * Moistens tissues * Helps us perform better mentally and physically |
How to stay hydrated:
* Always carry a water bottle * Drink at regular intervals * Eat food such as watermelon, cucumber and citrus fruit * Women need to aim for 2litres daily while men need 2.5litres * Extra water is needed during pregnancy, exercise and periods of illness * Elderly need extra encouragement to drink regularly as the thirst sensation decreases while medication increases need for water |
| What is dehydration?
* It is the loss of water from the body * If you feel thirsty you are already dehydrated * Urine should be clear or pale if you are hydrated * Poor mood * Less concentration * Headaches * Constipation * Tiredness |
Importance for children;
* Improves concentration and cognitive functioning * Children’s bodies need more water in relation to their body size than adults * Between 5-8 200ml glasses per day is average * Children don’t usually know when they are thirsty so their caregiver must offer water regularly * Children copy adults behaviour so if caregivers can model healthy drinking habits children will be encouraged |
