It is estimated that your body is around 60 – 70% water content. Various vital organs and systems in the body comprise of water, blood is mostly water and the lungs and muscles all have a high water content. The brain is made up of around 80% water. One of the major functions of water in the body is to pump oxygen to the the cells and it is well known that the body can only last without oxygen for  minutes.

So how do you know if you are dehydrated and not getting enough water throughout the day. Well, some of the effects of dehydration include:

• Poor concentration
• Lack of energy and  yawning
• Headaches
• Poor sleep patterns
• Sore and tired eyes
• Joint problems and aches and pains
• Dry skin

If you are suffering from the above effects chances are you won’t be able to work and live to 100% of your ability. Drinking enough water and keeping your body hydrated will actually help you to maintain focus and increase you energy levels.

The best way to stay hydrated is to drink water regularly throughout the day. A good rule of thumb is to have 1/2 a glass to a glass every hour. Another clue is to drink water at room temperature. This is because it is absorbed more readily and easily in to the body. Some great tips to help you to drink throughout the day and stay hydrated include:

• Keep a large bottle of water by your desk
• Keep water bottles in all sorts of different places including your car
• Substitute herbal teas instead of regular tea and coffee
• Try adding a dash of lemon of lime juice to the water to give it more flavor
• Have a glass of water every time you have a cup of coffee or tea
• Every time you eat have water as well.
• Have a glass of water when you first wake up in the morning
• If you are having an alcoholic drink make every second drink you have a glass of water

So remember to drink plenty of water, stay hydrated and you will find you become more productive!