How to stay well hydrated throughout the workday?
Research (source: Indiville, onderzoeksbureau Leuven) shows that two out of three Belgians do not drink enough water. Although it is recommended to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day, many people fall short.
Staying properly hydrated gives your body a valuable boost: smooth digestion, maintaining normal physical and cognitive functions, better temperature regulation, and optimal liver function.
Regular water intake at work helps you stay focused, energised and balanced. With these simple tips, you can maintain optimal hydration throughout your day.
1. Drink small amounts regularly
Do not wait until you feel thirsty; that is already a first sign of mild dehydration. By taking small sips regularly, your fluid balance remains much more stable.
2. Keep a water bottle in sight
A bottle, carafe, or reusable water flask on your desk acts as a handy reminder. You can see how much you have already drunk and how far you are from your daily 1.5-litre goal.
3. Drink with your meals
Your body absorbs water better when you drink during or just before a meal. Combined with foods rich in water, especially fruits and vegetables, you stay hydrated for longer.
4. Build fixed drinking moments into your work routine
Link your water intake to specific actions in your workday, such as the start of a meeting or opening your inbox. This keeps your hydration spread throughout the day without needing to actively think about it.
5. Be extra mindful in warm or dry environments
Air conditioning, heating, and intensive mental work can cause faster dehydration. Drinking extra water helps maintain concentration mood, and overall productivity.
6. Switch up the flavours
The best way not to get bored of water is to keep things varied. In the mood for bubbles? Be surprised by the intense sparkle of SPA® Intense or the natural finesse of SPA® Finesse. Craving fruit? Try SPA® Fruit, deliciously fruity lemonades. Prefer flavoured water or a mocktail? Discover SPA® Touch, water with natural fruit flavours and zero calories, a refreshing alternative to plain water!
FAQ: hydration advice
How much water should you drink per day at work?
It is recommended to drink around 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day to stay properly hydrated, support cognitive and physical functions, and maintain good energy levels.
Why is it important to drink regularly at work?
Drinking regularly helps improve concentration, digestion, body temperature regulation, and overall bodily functions, which supports productivity at work.
Should you wait until you feel thirsty to drink water?
No, feeling thirsty is already a mild sign of dehydration. It is better to drink small amounts of water throughout the day.
How can you make sure you drink enough water at the office?
Keeping a bottle or reusable flask visible on your desk helps remind you to drink regularly and makes it easier to track your daily intake.
What habits help improve hydration during the workday?
Linking water intake to specific moments (meetings, breaks, meals) and increasing your intake in warm or air-conditioned environments helps maintain proper hydration.