Half of Brits have no idea how much water they should be drinking on a daily basis
Half of Brits have no idea how much water they should be drinking on a daily basis, according to research.
Despite recent sweltering temperatures a third admit they don’t keep themselves properly hydrated.
A quarter revealed they have ‘struggled’ to increase their intake of fluids during the heatwave.
And 51 per cent revealed they rarely drink water unless it’s mixed with something else.
Commissioned by British Summer Fruits, who supply 95 per cent of berries to UK supermarkets, the research of 2,000 UK adults found some go as long as seven days without having a glass of water.
Dr Emma Derbyshire, Public Health Nutritionist and spokeswoman for British Summer Fruits, said: “Water is the single most important macronutrient to consume to stay hydrated, especially in this hot weather.
“Water is energy, calorie and sugar free so can help you to stay hydrated without providing surpluses of these.”
The research also found nine in 10 typically add squash or cordial to sweeten plain water.
And just one in 10 opt for water infused with chunks of freshly cut fruit such as berries.
Worryingly 23 per cent of the population choose fizzy drinks to stay hydrated.
While two thirds never check the calorie count in what they are drinking – in fact, only a fifth check the ingredients of drinks before consuming them.
Almost half believe no added sugar squash is better for you than regular squash.
Dr Emma Derbyshire added: “People across the country are becoming more conscious about what they are eating.
“However, many are still overlook what they are drinking – and in some instances energy and sugars can tally up.
“There are many healthy and delicious ways to beat dehydration. For example, try adding mixed berries to your water.
“Adding three to four mixed berries – raspberries, blueberries and strawberries – could help increase your vitamin C consumption.
“So, not only does it keep you hydrated, taste great, it also has added health benefits.”
DR EMMA DERBYSHIRE’S TOP TIPS FOR STAYING HYDRATED THIS SUMMER:
* Keep a water bottle in front of you at all times.
Whether it is a glass on your desk, a bottle in your handbag – if you always have water near you you’re more likely to drink it
* Flavour water with natural fruit – frozen fruits work well if you do not like plain water. It not only tastes great it also can have added health benefits.
My personal favourite is to add a mixture of mixed berries – strawberries, raspberries and blueberries.
* Being thirsty can actually make you feel hungry, so every time you find yourself reaching for the cupboard, drink a glass of water to mare you aren’t confusing hunger with dehydration.
If you are, you’ll be cutting back the unwanted calories.
* Other drinks like fruit juice also contribute to your fluid allowance, but stick to a 150ml serving to fall in line with guidelines.
* Alcohol can also make you dehydrated so if you’re consuming it, drink a glass of water after each drink to ensure you are not getting dehydrated.