Hydration matters
Drinking enough fluids helps your body function, supports recovery and can help prevent infections.
Key benefits for you
- Maintains body function and temperature.
- Helps you feel alert, energised and well.
- Supports brain function and helps prevent delirium.
- Reduces the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Supports your immune system and helps healing.
- Helps with blood pressure and reduces risk of falls.
- Helps your kidneys filter waste.
How much to drink
Aim for 6 to 8 cups (1.5 to 2 litres) each day.
Please note: you may need to drink more if you have a fever, are active or it’s hot.
Check your urine
Your urine colour can help you see if you are well hydrated.
Please note, other factors can change your urine colour, for example, vitamins or medicine.
What counts toward your fluids
Drinks* including:
- water
- tea and coffee
- milk
- soups
- squash or juice (maximum 150ml per day)
* Alcohol and caffeinated drinks (including tea and coffee) can dehydrate – try to limit them.
Food including:
- fruit (for example, melon, orange and berries)
- vegetables (for example, cucumber, lettuce and tomato)
- yoghurt
- jelly
Please note, the above is a guide and may vary depending on your condition or if you are preparing for a procedure or operation. Always follow the advice of your healthcare team.