How much water should you drink per day?

According to Norman Curtis, a nutritionist at the British Institute of Food Research, "our body needs to absorb 1.5 litre of liquids a day". This quantity is divided into two different sources. "You have to drink 1 litre of water daily and other liquids like milk, coffee or tea," the specialist said.

Before specifying: "There is no absolute rule, we can drink only herbal tea if we wish". However, the nutritionist recalls that this does not include caloric drinks such as sodas and fruit juices. "A glass of this type of drink is more than enough."

There is also the water that comes from the solid food we eat: "fruits, vegetables and dairy products are the ones that contain the most water". Finally, there is the water that naturally emanates from our body.

When to drink water?

There is no ideal time in the day to quench your thirst. "But for good hydration, it is necessary to drink often and regularly, adds the specialist. And do not wait until you're thirsty because when you do, you're already dehydrated. "

Some seasons and situations are conducive to increasing our water consumption. "When it's hot, it's recommended to drink between 0.5 and 1 litre more than usual," recalls Dr. Curtis. The amount increases when exercising and the temperature is high. It is advisable to drink between 1 and 2 liters of water.

We sometimes tend to forget it but our body also dehydrates more easily when we are sick. "In case of fever or diarrhea, the body needs even more water and this is especially true for the children and the elderly."

Why should we drink?

"Water is vital to maintain cell balance and circulation," says Dr. Curtis. Without water, the body risks serious functioning disorders.

We do not want to scare you but the list of symptoms in case of lack of water is long: transit slows down, cramps, breakdowns, cystitis, constipation as well as premature aging ... So do not wait any longer and all the water you need.