Why Water Matters

Did you know that about 60 percent of your body is water? Your brain, your heart and your muscles all need water to work well. But many people don't drink enough, especially in hot countries.

Water helps your body in many ways. It carries food and oxygen around your body. It keeps your body at the right temperature. When you are hot, you sweat, and the water on your skin cools you down. Water also helps you think clearly and stay awake.

Doctors usually say adults should drink about two litres of water a day. That's around eight glasses. You need more when the weather is hot or when you do sport.

Remember, you also get water from food. Fruit like watermelon and oranges, and vegetables like cucumber, contain a lot of water.

If you feel thirsty, your body already needs water. Other signs are a headache, feeling tired and dark yellow urine.

Here are some easy tips: carry a water bottle with you, drink a glass of water when you wake up, and choose water instead of fizzy drinks. Your body will thank you!