14/08/2025
We often advise patients to drink plenty of water following their treatment, especially in the warmer months.
The Eatwell Guide recommends that people should aim to drink 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid a day. Water, lower-fat milk and sugar-free drinks, including tea and coffee, all count.
You may need to drink more fluids if you're:
▫️pregnant or breastfeeding
▫️in a hot environment
▫️physically active for long periods
▫️ill or recovering from illness
✅drink regularly throughout the day
✅swap sugary drinks for diet, sugar-free or no added sugar drinks
✅adults can choose lower fat milk, such as semi-skimmed, 1% fat or skimmed milk and unsweetened plant-based drinks
✅limit fruit juice and smoothies to a maximum of one small glass (150ml) a day and drink with a meal, as they're high in sugar
✅check nutrition labels on drinks – look for drinks with green or amber colour-coded labels
✅drink extra fluids if you've been sweating from physical activity, or if you're unwell – water is the best way to replace lost fluids
✅dilute squash drinks or cordials well to reduce the sugar content
✅drink caffeine in moderation – some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others, depending on how much they drink and how often. Check the label for drinks that are high in caffeine.
✅if you don't like the taste of water, try sparkling water, no added sugar squash, or add a slice of lemon or lime
(NHS, 2023)
