Staying hydrated isn’t just something you need to focus on during the sweltering summer months, it’s something you need to consider even in the coldest weeks of winter. Water, you see, is essential for our bodies to function properly and not getting enough of it can lead to a multitude of illnesses. So why do around 62% of people not get enough water? Probably because they don’t realise how much they should be drinking.

Health experts agree that a gallon of water per day (around 8 pints) should be mandatory for sustaining optimal health and you should be drinking even more if you are physically exerting yourself more than usual. It’s worth noting that women generally require a little less water per day than men and many of us get around 20% of our daily water intake through our food but we should still be trying more.

Drinking more water helps to maintain your temperature, lubricate your joints and carry oxygen comfortably around your cells. It’s also vital for ensuring that your organs function properly and helps to remove waste in tandem with your liver and kidneys. As your body is constantly using water, you need to replenish and replace lost water.

But besides simply helping us stay alive, there are several other benefits to drinking a gallon of water a day.

Energy

While many of us turn to caffeine to give us an energy boost in the morning we should really be reaching for a pint of cold filtered tap water instead. Fatigue and a lack of energy are two of the main symptoms of dehydration and drinking a gallon a day will help keep your energy levels high and sleep more soundly at night.

Skin

Drinking enough water also leads to better skin and a generally healthier appearance. When skin loses water, it starts to crack and flake and while lotion certainly helps to a degree the best way to help your skin long-term is to start drinking more. You’ll soon notice fewer wrinkles and less dryness.

Cravings

The more water you drink, the less hungry you’ll feel and the less likely you’ll be to turn to junk food and snacks to fill the void. When we’re dehydrated, our systems become confused and send signals to our brains that we’re still hungry even when we’re full. When your water intake is optimal, everything will be working as it should and you’ll be less inclined to ask for seconds and thirds.

Performance

Have you ever wondered why professional athletes drink so much water? Yes, they might tell you in adverts that it’s an energy drink that keeps them going but behind the scenes and away from the sponsors, all they will probably be drinking is H2O. Proper lubrication keeps our joints loose and allows for more flexibility in our movements.

If you are struggling to drink your 8 pints of water a day, consider setting yourself goals and working your way up. Or even experiment with making your water more exciting for an added incentive? You should also ensure your water has been properly filtered so you’re getting all the nutrients you need and none of the potentially harmful contaminants typically found in UK drinking water.