DRINKING WATER: THE IMPORTANCE OF HYDRATION

Drinking water is often the most convenient and cheapest way for you to stay hydrated and rehydrate. 

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation

DRINKING H2O IS THE WAY TO GO

The body is made up of 50 to 75 per cent water, and as it can’t store water, you need fresh supplies every day. Most tap water in Australia contains fluoride that helps prevent tooth decay. Water is also a great choice for your health and hydration as it has:

  • No sugar
  • No carbohydrate

Drinking water on a regular basis helps keep you hydrated so that you stay more energised and awake.

HYDRATION AND WHY IT’S SO IMPORTANT

Good hydration is essential for good health and plays a key role in how your body functions each day. Dehydration can also affect your alertness which in turn can lead to mistakes, especially when you’re using machinery and sharp objects. If you don’t drink enough water, you might experience signs of dehydration including (but not limited to):

  • Confusion
  • Dark urine
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Muscle cramps
  • Thirst or dry mouth
  • Tiredness

IMPORTANT: Keep an eye out for your co workers when working in hot conditions or physically demanding roles as they may not know they are getting dehydrated. 

TIPS TO HELP YOU STAY HYDRATED

Drink plenty of water instead of sugary drinks like energy drinks, soft drinks or cordial.

Have a reusable water bottle with you during the day that you can refill, or keep a spare water bottle around (especially during hot days and/or when working in physically demanding roles).

Try to get into a water drinking routine. For example, drink water when:

  • You wake up
  • At breakfast, lunch and dinner,
  • Also, when you go to bed

Also, remember that you will have access to a tap or water cooler at every work site.

MONITOR YOUR URINE

Finally, the NSW Health Urine Colour Chart is a useful resource to help give you an idea of whether you are drinking enough water.

WELLNESS GOES 24/7

Labourpower values your health and wellbeing and is committed to wellness in the workplace. We are proud to partner with Workactive to bring you safety and wellbeing programs throughout the year.

Look out for our regular Toolbox Tuesday and Wellness Wednesday posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and the Labourpower website.

 

 

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