How much, roughly
UK guidance from the NHS suggests aiming for around six to eight cups or glasses of fluid a day, and more when it’s hot or you’ve been active. Water, lower-fat milk and sugar-free drinks all count.
You don’t need to overthink the exact number - the goal is simply to sip regularly rather than remember in a panic at bedtime.
Make it the easy option
The single best trick is to keep a bottle or shaker within arm’s reach. If it’s there, you drink from it; if it’s in the kitchen, you don’t. Tie sips to things you already do, and it quickly becomes a habit.
- Keep a filled bottle on your desk and by your bed
- Have a glass with every meal and every coffee
- Flavour it with fruit if plain water bores you
- Refill it first thing so it’s ready to go
When electrolytes make sense
For most everyday sipping, water is all you need. If you’ve sweated a lot - a hard workout, a hot day, a long run - some people choose an electrolyte drink or hydration tablet; check the label and see what works for you.
