Is two litres of water a day really necessary?

Experts are challenging the health recommendations and benefits of drinking excessive amounts of water

Experts are challenging health advice that requires people to drink two litres of water a day.

According to health experts, fruit, vegetables and juices can be just as beneficial for hydration and should play a role in our daily fluid consumption.

Public health expert Spero Tdindos says our bodies need around two litres of fluid each day, but that does not mean we need to drink two litre bottles of water.

Tdindos believes that encouraging people to drink so much is inspired by vested interests rather than health concerns.

‘Thirty years ago you didn’t see a plastic water bottle anywhere, now they appear as fashion accessories. As tokens of instant gratification and symbolism, the very bottle itself is seen as cool and hip.’

Tdindos questions the notion that drinking water can aid weight loss suggesting drinking large amounts of water will not make you lose weight without a calorie controlled diet.

He also points out that we should not discount the fluid intake from drinks such as tea and coffee.

‘We should be telling people that beverages like tea and coffee contribute to a person’s fluid needs and despite their caffeine content, do not lead to dehydration.’

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