More water leaves your body when you sweat, and of course when you go to the toilet. If you don’t top up the water level in your body, you’ll quickly start to become dehydrated.

Why is losing fluid a problem? Well, as your body is about 60% water by weight, and your brain is up to 85% water, a loss of even a few percent has a big impact. Some of the effects of even slight dehydration include loss of concentration, headaches, muscle fatigue and an increase in heart rate.

Feeling thirsty is a sign of dehydration, but it only occurs after the body has already lost a lot of fluid – so you should drink water before you become thirsty.

What’s important for adults is equally crucial for children. Kids can easily become dehydrated at school or while out playing, and the results can include headaches and a loss of concentration. That’s why it’s a good idea to include bottled water – such as HYDR8 Premium Drinking Water for Kids – for lunch or break time.

As a general rule, you need about two litres of fluid a day just to maintain a healthy level of hydration. When you exercise – whether it’s a gentle stroll around the park or a marathon – you need more. Obviously how much more depends on how hard you’re exercising, but whatever level you’re at, it’s a good idea to drink water before, during and after exercise.