Healthy ideas for staying hydrated

Have you heard the saying “water is life?” - well, it’s true.

Water is an essential nutrient. Our body cannot produce sufficient water to live, so we need to consume water through food and fluids to survive. Maintaining hydration is one of the most fundamental components of good health. But lots of people don’t like drinking plain water much. The good news is there are many other healthy ways to help you stay hydrated.

Why hydration is important

Water is vital for many aspects of body functioning. About half our blood is “blood plasma”, which is over 90% water. Blood plasma is essential for carrying energy, nutrients and oxygen to the cells in the body that need it most. Water helps to remove waste products via the kidneys. It also helps keep joints lubricated, the digestive system functioning, the body’s temperature controlled and skin plump and strong.


If you don’t consume enough water, you may experience symptoms of dehydration such as headaches, dizziness, tiredness, low concentration, constipation and a dry mouth. Being severely dehydrated increases the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections. If you feel thirsty, it means your body is already mildly dehydrated, so make sure you pay attention to what your body is telling you.

Lauren Ball is Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing, The University of Queensland. Emily Burch is a dietitian and researcher at The University of Queensland. This piece first appeared on The Conversation.