If what you’re about to read doesn’t make you reach for your Stanley cup, we don’t know what will.
It turns out that nearly two thirds of us don’t drink enough water and all that tea and beer we’re drinking isn’t helping. In fact, it’s doing the opposite.
Worse still, one in three people go without drinking any water at all throughout the day, and nearly half have no clue how much they should be drinking.
But what does that mean for your health? And how much does it actually affect your mental clarity?
Metro spoke to a GP to find out.
What does dehydration do to your body and what are the main symptoms?
Dr Nadira Awal explains that while thirst might be the most obvious hint that you need to up your water game – by the time you’re there, you’re already likely experiencing a low level of dehydration.
For these reasons, it’s ‘best to drink water throughout the day, rather than waiting until you’re thirsty,’ she shares.
Then there’s the headaches, which are another early sign of dehydration.
When the body lacks fluids, blood volume falls, which as Dr Nadira outlines, results in ‘diminished blood flow to the brain’ – and naturally, the best tonic for this is a little bit of Adam’s ale. Who’d have thought?
It’s bad news on the beauty front: dehydration can dry your lips out – beyond anything a bit of lip balm can solve. Plus, there’s the obvious issue of having a dry mouth.
‘As the body dehydrates, saliva production diminishes, causing the mouth to feel dry or sticky. Lips may also become dry and chapped,’ Dr Nadira adds.
‘When the body is not adequately hydrated, the skin may feel less plump and flexible. The skin turgor test is a basic test in which you gently pinch and release the skin on the back of your hand. If the skin doesn’t soon return to its usual position and instead appears “tented,” it may be an indication of dehydration.’
Elsewhere, it can also impact your energy levels – and as Dr Nadira explains, fatigue is a common sign of dehydration, but it’s sometimes missed.
When the body is dehydrated, it needs to work harder to ‘execute routine processes, which can cause fatigue and a lack of energy,’ she adds. So, if you’re feeling exhausted and you can’t put it down to a lack of sleep (or even too much exercise), it could simply be a lack of aqua.
And when dehydration levels up and becomes more extreme, so do the symptoms, which might include a faster heartbeat and heavier breathing as the body ‘attempts to compensate for decreased blood volume,’ as well as confusion or irritation, which stem from the brain’s deprivation of water.
‘In extreme circumstances, fainting may result from a drop in blood pressure,’ Dr Nadira advises.
‘When these symptoms appear, it is critical to treat dehydration at once. In most circumstances, increasing fluid intake will treat mild to moderate dehydration.
‘However, in severe situations or susceptible populations such as small children or the elderly, medical intervention may be required.’
How much water do you actually need to drink in a day?
It’s an age-old question. The amount of water you need to drink actually depends on multiple factors, including age, gender, activity levels, climate, and the overall state of your health.
Dr Nadira advises that the typical adult male should be drinking roughly 13 cups or 3 litres of water each day, while the recommendation for adult women is substantially lower at 9 cups (or 2.2 litres).
During pregnancy, a person’s water requirements also increase to support the growth of the baby, increasing to 10 cups (which equates to 2.3 litres) each day.
‘This heightened demand persists after, particularly among lactating women. Lactating women should aim for about 13 cups (3 litres) of water each day to support milk production and keep themselves hydrated,’ Dr Nadira adds.
And if you’re sick, if it’s a particularly hot day, or if you’ve been exercising, your requirements ‘dramatically’ increase. During illness, the exact amount will vary depending on how long you’re down for, but you should generally ‘strive to drink enough to maintain urine pale and avoid thirst.’
Whether you’ve been packing in the miles on the treadmill, lifting weights or running an ultramarathon, Dr Nadira’s rules state that during any form of exercise, you should drink one cup of water for every 15-20 minutes of activity.
Are Brits really drinking enough water?
Two thirds of the UK population (65%) don’t drink enough water, while almost 3 in 10 (27%) of us drink less than three glasses each day.
Worse still, a third (35%) often go an entire day without any H20 passing their lips, while 49% have no idea how much they should even be drinking, according to new statistics from hydration brand Liquid I.V.
You should continue to hydrate yourself after you’ve finished your workout too, to replenish all the liquids you’ve lost while sweating.
‘It’s worth noting that, while these guidelines provide a general framework, the best indicator of appropriate hydration is frequently listening to your body’s cues and examining the colour of your urine. Thirst is a reliable indicator that your body requires more fluids, while pale yellow urine typically suggests enough hydration,’ Dr Nadira further advises.
Do other drinks besides water count towards your daily liquid intake?
Yes – all kinds of beverages count towards your daily liquid intake, including tea, squash (without excessive sugar), coffee, milk and even some soups – but naturally, water is the most hydrating option.
However, Dr Nadira adds that drinks like caffeine can actually have a mild ‘diuretic effect’ – which means that you might be popping to the loo more often.
‘Still, for most people, these drinks still contribute to hydration in a net-positive way. Just be mindful of added sugars if you’re looking for a healthier option,’ she concludes.
‘Keep in mind that alcohol is the only fluid to be dehydrating in healthy individuals with full gut function.’
So, if you’re getting a few pints in at the pub with your pals, you might want to intersperse them (or zebra stripe) with some trusty old H20 to save an even worse headache the next morning.
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
His Majesty King Charles III’s team has had to issue a last-minute notice do to “essential” works at his Sandringham estate
26 Mar, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Memories last a lifetime, so spoil your mum to a Mother’s Day experience
SHOPPING – Contains affiliated content. Products featured in this Metro article are selected by our shopping writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, Metro.co.uk will earn an affiliate commission. Click here for more information.
Mother’s Day is fast approaching, as it falls on 30th March this year, and it is the prime time to spoil the mother figure in your life, whether it is your mum, stepmum, grandmother, aunt, wife, or partner.
When it comes to Mother’s Day many people are on the hunt for the perfect spot to enjoy a Mother’s Day meal out, or a pub lunch, as well as experience gifts, according to Google.
While we often gift our parent a fragrance, box of chocolates or flowers for Mother’s Day, some may be looking for something a little more sentimental. If you are planning to use the gift giving occasion as the chance to make more memories with your mum, which will last longer than the one day, we have found the best gift experiences this Mother’s Day.
Mother’s Day gift experiences are not only a great idea for those shopping an alternative present to the conventional Mother’s Day gift ideas, but it is perfect for those who may have left their shopping to the 11th hour.
Plus, research conducted by VoucherCodes.co.uk has found that British people are likely to spend more on Mother’s Day gifts than Father’s Day gifts this year, with an average of £80.94. Why that is? We don’t know. But, we do agree that a blow-the-budget gift is best applied to gift experience.
From afternoon tea, to a pamper, theatre shows to perfume workshops, we have whittled down the best Mother’s day activity ideas and experiences to treat your matriarch to.
Shop The Best Experiences
Harrods Breakfast at The Tiffany Blue Box Café for Two
Start Mother’s Day in true elegance with a luxury breakfast at The Tiffany Blue Box Café, located inside Harrods. This iconic luxury designer jewellery brand’s café offers a stunning setting with its signature Tiffany-blue décor, plus a delicious gourmet breakfast menu. Ideal for mums who appreciate fine dining and timeless glamour, this experience is a sophisticated way to celebrate her special day. You could easily while away the hours with a shopping spree in Harrods after, darling.
Fortnum & Mason Afternoon Tea for Two in The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon
Indulge in a timeless afternoon tea experience at Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, a historic venue renowned for its luxury tea selection, handcrafted patisserie, and elegant surroundings. Treat your mum to a selection of finely cut sandwiches, fluffy scones, and exquisite cakes, all served on the finest china in a setting fit for royalty. Alternatively, you can select from a number of gift hampers to bring the Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea experience to the comfort of their home.
E.P.C. Mother’s Day Blending Experience for Two
For those who love fragrance, getting creative and experiences, Experimental Perfume Club (E.P.C) E.P.C. has launched a unique and unforgettable gift experience in the form of its Mother’s Day Blending Experience for two. Guided by expert perfumers, you and your mum will create a custom fragrance, perfectly tailored to your individual scent preferences. This immersive experience is educational, fun and allows you to let those creative juices flow. Plus, you leave with a one-of-a-kind perfume to take home. It may be a pricey gift, but you’ll never forget this experience.
Spa Treatments and Pampering Experiences
A spa treatment is the lavish gift experience your mum needs.Whether she prefers a rejuvenating facial, a soothing massage, or a full spa retreat, this experience allows her to unwind and refresh in a tranquil setting. With options available for one or two people, it’s the perfect way to treat her to some well-deserved down time.
MAMMA MIA! Theatre Tickets for Two
Surprise your mum with tickets to MAMMA MIA!, the hit West End musical filled with ABBA’s greatest hits. Sing along with your very own Dancing Queen while enjoying the heartwarming story, impressive performances, and being transported to a Greek island. Whether she’s a lifelong ABBA fan, or just loves a great night at the theatre, this experience is guaranteed to get a standing ovation.
Mother's Day Pottery Experience For Two
For a fun and unique Mother’s Day gift, why not try a pottery experience for two? This hands-on workshop is a relaxing and therapeutic way to spend quality time together while learning a new skill. From wheel throwing to hand-building techniques, you and your mum will create beautiful handmade pottery pieces to take home as a lasting keepsake. Opt for a mug, and enjoy slurping your morning brew out together over your mother and child catch ups for years to come.
You only have a few days remaining to get her a gift she’ll really want this Mother’s Day.
Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Share your views in the comments below
Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales loves high street earrings and one of her favourite pairs is her Accessorize ‘Doorknokcer’ earrings which she often wears for royal outings. They cost just £2.10.
26 Mar, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis' $17m beach house they're tearing down amid shying away from spotlight
Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis were pictured enjoying a trip to Europe with their two children recently. The couple, who met on That ’70s Show, share Dimitri and Wyatt together and own two homes in California. However, their Santa Monica beach house has been torn down for this reason…
26 Mar, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'I'm tempted to have an affair as my marriage has started to feel boring'
Resident agony aunt Coleen Nolan has advice for a reader who’s considering having a passionate fling with a man in a similar situation to enjoy having sex again
26 Mar, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'I'm in love with my husband but met my toxic ex for closure and had sex'
Resident agony aunt Coleen Nolan has advice for a reader who despite moving on from an unhealthy relationship, ended up cheating on her new husband with her ex
26 Mar, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Harper Beckham may be 13, but we could all learn something from her capsule wardrobe
Harper Beckham always wears timeless clothes and Victoria Beckham’s daughter wears a capsule wardrobe full of slip dresses, jeans, trainers, and classic handbags.
26 Mar, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
The shocking side effects of my prescription completely changed my personality
I was 21 and doing some work at university in Liverpool when I passed out on the floor. My friends called paramedics. When I woke up, I had no idea what had happened.
That was my first experience of having an epileptic seizure.
I wasn’t diagnosed with epilepsy until I had a second seizure a few months later. I wasn’t born with it and I don’t have a family history, so receiving that diagnosis in my early twenties was shocking. It completely changed my life.
I came away from my first neurologist’s appointment with more questions than answers. The only two things they could tell me were that my seizures were focal (so they started in one part of my brain and then spread) and that I had some kind of photosensitivity: my seizures are caused by blue light from screens.
My neurologist started me on a drug called Lamotrigine, which I had to increase week on week to build up to a target dose. I ended up having more seizures during this time, injuring myself and getting concussions, all while trying to stay on at university, do the work and keep my head above water.
I found myself getting angry and impatient, so I went back to the neurologist. He put me onto a much more aggressive medication, called levetiracetam.
Through the work I’ve since done with charity Epilepsy Action, I’ve learnt more about levetiracetam. It can be a really effective epilepsy medication as it stops seizures, but the side effects can be really extreme.
In my case, levetiracetam took me to a really, really low place mentally. I didn’t want to be awake or speak to anyone; dealing with the world was just too much.
And when I was conscious, I had violent mood swings, going from very happy to very, very sad, crying and all the rest of it. I punched a hole through a door in frustration. I developed a tick. The effects of levetiracetam completely changed my personality.
Eventually, I decided I’d rather have epileptic seizures than continue on as this completely different person. I not only chose to stop the levetiracetam but to stop taking any epilepsy medication at all – my plan was just to try and not look at screens.
The levetiracetam side effects gradually faded, and I wasn’t having seizures. Yet when I went back to my next neurology appointment, my consultant made it clear that the seizure risk was still there and I needed to be on something to prevent me seizing and hurting myself again.
For Sarah
Last year, on March 10, we lost our beloved colleague Sarah Whiteley. Sarah was a fantastic journalist; she was Metro’s parenting columnist and a valued member of our first-person and opinion desk.
Sarah died aged 39 from SUDEP – sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. It is thought that every year around 1,000 people die from causes related to epilepsy.
With support from Sarah’s family, Metro is fundraising for two very important charities: SUDEP Action and Epilepsy Action.
From March 10 to March 26, which marks Purple Day (epilepsy awareness day), we will be running a series of features and first-person pieces, raising awareness of epilepsy and SUDEP.
Sarah was so incredible at helping other people share their experiences; she was a born storyteller and we hope to do her proud with this series, while raising money in her memory.
Finding the right medication can be frustrating with any condition, but particularly with epilepsy. There is no one-size-fits-all drug or dose and levetiracetam is not the only anti-seizure medication that has side effects.
Then one drug may stop working for whatever reason so it can be a case of taking additional drugs while phasing the old one out. It can be very tempting to think that it’s not worth taking anything and not wanting to interact with the doctors, just as I did.
Yet side effects aside, medication is the most important factor for controlling seizures. Getting on top of it is the number one priority for anyone with epilepsy, and neurologists would say as much.
Ultimately, mine is a success story. Medication has now more or less helped to control my condition.
My neurologist put me back onto Lamotrigine and this time round I was more patient: I waited while my dose increased. By the time I reached my target amount, the drug really helped to control my seizures and I could finally start getting my life back on track.
The main battle for me has been to try and regain a bit of my old self-confidence, my self-esteem. I’ve always prided myself on being quite resilient and I derive a lot of self-worth from knowing that I can crack on and be responsible for myself.
For a long time I found it difficult to be treated as somebody with a disability, treated with kid gloves, having people pander to me. I’m very lucky to have that support network but at the same time I didn’t feel like quite myself.
Epilepsy Action
Epilepsy Action supports the 630,000 people with epilepsy every day through their helpline, information, groups and services.
The charity’s ambition is to create a world without limits with people with epilepsy. By raising awareness of the condition, too often misunderstood and invisible. By changing the narrative around it, collaborating with healthcare professionals and campaigning for better services. By working to get everyone in the UK to know what epilepsy is and how they can support.
You can donate to Epilepsy Action here.
For me, the key has been finding the things that fulfil me and make me feel like I’m a little bit in charge. I was able to go back and finish university, and I am now training to be a teacher. I’ve also got back into sport; I used to play rugby to a reasonable standard and thought epilepsy would be the end of that, but I’m playing again.
Helping others has also been instrumental. I started a charity in Liverpool called The Merseyside Collective, which facilitates sports events like football tournaments and five-a-side matches to help the mental and physical health of residents in the area. Our proceeds go towards sponsoring local urban regeneration and re-greening projects in Liverpool.
I help out with Epilepsy Action too, interacting with other people in support groups, especially men. Men’s mental health is so important anyway, and as much as I try to be responsible for myself, you have to be able to talk about what you’re going through, especially when it comes to epilepsy.
Men are reticent about talking but being very honest is really, really important. If I need extra support or provision, I don’t let myself feel ashamed of it. I ask for what I need and take up space.
Employers are getting increasingly better at accommodating epilepsy although I still have coping mechanisms of my own. Often I’ll jump in my bed and use my non-backlit tablet to read or work; I use blue light glasses to read off a screen and I take breaks every 20 minutes. At work, I try to let people know if something might affect how fast I can get things done, but that’s just the way it is.
The period I spent trying to get my epilepsy medication right was one of the darkest of my life. At one point I felt like my neurologists didn’t seem to know anything because there was nothing they could tell me, no new information they could offer. Getting medication sorted takes time but my condition is now more or less under control because of it.
I am not completely back to how I once was. I’ll never be able to do certain things – including joining the military, which had previously been my goal – and I do have to be very, very mindful of my lifestyle: I treat sleep like a second medication, it’s just so essential for me. But I am now two-years seizure free and able to drive again, which is a huge hurdle for lots of young people with epilepsy.
You can live a really full life with epilepsy, you just have to trust the process. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk.
Share your views in the comments below.
26 Mar, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Grab a blooming bargain with up to 40% off garden must-haves in Amazon’s Spring Sale
SHOPPING – Contains affiliated content. Products featured in this Metro article are selected by our shopping writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, Metro.co.uk will earn an affiliate commission. Click here for more information.
Spring has sprung – and so have the Amazon Spring Deal Days – aka the perfect time to stock up on garden essentials ahead of the warmer weather.
Lasting until March 31st, this unmissable savings event marks the true start of spring, supplying you with unmissable offers on products your outdoor spaces need to dust away the winter cobwebs.
From lawn mowers and outdoor seating to weed killer and BBQs, we’ve found all the garden essentials that you need to shop now, with savings of up to 40% to take advantage of.
What better time to make your garden a haven again?
Flymo EasiGlide 360 Hover Collect Lawn Mower – 1800W Motor
Designed with a 10 metre cable, this mower gives you the freedom to tackle small and medium size lawns with ease. It boasts a powerful 1800W motor so you can save on time and effort, while the 36cm cutting width and 10-30mm cutting height ensures a neat and tidy finish to your lawn.
Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4-in-1 Lawn Food – 200 m2
Ready to use, this Complete 4-in-1 Lawn Food leaves you lawn greener in just seven days, helping to rid your lawn of moss and weeds and grow your grass up stronger from the roots.
Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights 2, 30M
Fill your outdoor spaces with personalised colour with these Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights, now on offer for £40 less. Smart and controlled from your phone, these clever lights boast 47 scene modes and 16 million colours to illuminate your outdoor spaces.
Roundup Optima+ Total Weedkiller – Weedkiller 1l
If the garden weeds are getting out of hand, then take back control with this Roundup Weedkiller. Fast action and ready to use, this weed killer shows visible results in just four days, with weeds controlled within one to four weeks.
Weber Classic Kettle Charcoal Grill Barbecue, 57cm
With the first signs of spring finally here, it's arguably time to dust off the BBQ, and if you're in need of a new one then this is a deal not to miss. This classic charcoal grill has a built-in temperature gauge, heat-resistant bowl and lid, triple plated cooking grate, heavy-gauge steel fuel grate plus heat shield handle.
iBorn Metal Bird Feeder 6 Ports Hanging Wild Bird Seed Feeder
Treat the local birds to the perfect place to pick up a snack with this iBorn Metal Bird Feeder. The six feeding ports with perches allow for multiple birds to feed simultaneously, while the aluminium ports help to ensure minimal squirrel damage.
NETTA Hedge Trimmer and Cutter – 500W – 500mm Diamond Cutting Blade
Twigs and branches don't stand a chance with this highly-ratedNETTA 500W Corded Hedge Trimmer. The ideal tool for getting your garden into shape, it boasts a blade cutting length of 55cm and 16mm tooth openings for tackling small to medium bushes.
Straame Garden | Zero Gravity Chair | Set of 2
Make sure you're prepared for the first glimpses of sun with a new set of garden chairs. These zero gravity reclining chairs recline to 170 degrees so you can relax in total comfort. Plus, with extra-large armrests, you can rest your arms and enjoy your favourite drink or food with the included cup tray.
Keter City 113L Outdoor 96% recycled Small Balcony Garden Furniture Storage Box
Take charge of your small spaces with this Keter City outdoor storage box. Ideal for all your outdoor tools and equipment, this roomy box has a huge 113L capacity, set to keep your things dry and ventilated all year round.
Bosch High Pressure Washer UniversalAquatak
Save a huge £68 on this top-rated pressure washer from Bosch. This tool boasts powerful cleaning with a pressure of 135 bar, while the 3-in-1 nozzle combines a fan jet, rotary jet and point jet for versatile cleaning wherever you need it.
I can almost feel the sun already…
Disclaimer: All prices mentioned are accurate at the time of publication.
Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Share your views in the comments below