All known living organisms on Earth are dependent on water.

Water is a major constituent of our bodies. In fact it represents about two thirds of our bodymass. So dehydration is major health issue and it is believed that very few of us drink sufficient water.

Drinking plenty of water will help to keep us fit and healthy. Dehydration makes us physically tire quickly and make us mentally slow.

You should keep your water levels topped up by drinking at least 8 glasses (250ml) of water a day or more if you are exercising. You should not wait until you are thirsty before taking a drink but keep your intake evenly distributed during the day.

Tea or coffee are thought to no substitute for water. These can act as a diuretic, increasing dehydration. However, rcent research argues otherwise in favour of tea - see link below*

Children are vulnerable to dehydration as they are generally far more active than adults. But it would seem that fizzy and soft drinks are preferred to water. These too can act as a diuretic are no substitute for water. For this reason it is thought that many children are dehydrated and do not drink sufficient water.

Children should drink about 6 glasses of water a day and more during hot weather depending on their age and size.

Drinking sufficient water helps you digestive system and helps your body handle salt and sugar levels more effectively, helping your body to get rid of waste products.

You should always start and finish the day with a glass of water as the body loses water whilst you sleep.

Cold viruses can also dehydrate you body. When oyu are ill keep water close to your bed to avoid having to get up to have a drink of water. And drink room temperature water as this is said to be absorbed more quickly than iced water.

This general overview is intended to point up the importance of clean, fresh water for a healthy lifestyle.