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CAMILLA FOSTER SUGGESTS WAYS TO STAY HYDRATED WHEN THE HEAT IS ON

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AS temperatures rise, it’s essential to be aware of the key health risks the hot weather can bring. While symptoms like thirst and light-headedness may seem minor, it’s important not to underestimate the seriousness of dehydration - and to know how to keep our bodies properly hydrated.

How much water should the average adult drink during a heatwave, and does this differ from normal recommendations?

“It is recommended to drink around eight glasses of water per day, which equals around 1.5-2 litres per day,” says Dr Angela Rai, GP at The London General Practice. “The ideal water intake varies on factors such as age, underlying health conditions, medicines taken regularly, and activity levels, but in general men may need up to 3.7 litres a day and women 2.7 litres a day.”

In hot weather and particularly during a heatwave, everyone's water requirements will go up.