Maximise your physical performance by drinking more water

If you you do not stay hydrated, your physical performance will decrease. This is especially important during intense exercise or high temperatures. Losing as little as 2 percent of your body’s water content can significantly impair physical performance.

Hydration has a huge effect on brain function

Studies show that even mild dehydration (1-3 percent of body weight) can impair many aspects of brain function. It can impair energy levels and mood, and lead to major reductions in memory and brain performance.

Drinking water may help to prevent and treat headaches

Dehydration can trigger headaches and migraines in some people. Several studies have shown that water can relieve headaches in those who are dehydrated. However, this appears to depend on the type of headache.

Drinking more water may help with constipation

Drinking a lot of water can help prevent and relieve constipation, especially in people who generally do not drink enough water.

Carbonated water shows particularly promising results for constipation relief, although the reason is not entirely understood.

Water helps prevent and alleviate hangovers

Alcohol is a diuretic, so it makes you lose more water than you take in. This can lead to dehydration.

Although dehydration is not the main cause of hangovers, it can cause symptoms like thirst, fatigue and headache.

Drink a glass of water between drinks and at least a glass before going to bed.

Drinking more water can help with weight loss

Drinking plenty of water can help you lose weight. This is because water can increase satiety and boost your metabolic rate.

Drinking two litres of water per day can increase your total energy expenditure by up to 96 calories per day.

Drinking water half an hour before meals is the most effective.

Drinking water may help treat kidney stones

Higher fluid intake increases the volume of urine passing through the kidneys, which dilutes the concentration of minerals, so they are less likely to crystallise and form clumps.

Water may also help prevent the initial formation of stones, but studies are required to confirm this.