First and foremost, discuss with your doctor how much liquid per day is right for you. Bear in mind that this includes both drinks – water, coffee, tea – and liquid-based foods such as drinking yoghurt, ice cream or soup. Liquids from other food still have to be added on top.
There’s no question that drinking very low quantities can be a daily challenge. However, there is a range of easy ways you can proactively limit your liquid intake and lower your thirst. Try keeping your daily liquid allowance in a water bottle. This way you always know how much you’ve consumed.
If your mouth feels dry, rinse your mouth or gargle with lukewarm water – or refresh your mouth by sucking on a half-slice of lemon up to four times a day. Chewing sugar-free gum can also stimulate saliva production, leaving your mouth feeling moister. A great trick for sweltering hot days is to make ice cubes with drops of lemon or other sour fruit, and suck on them.
Visit our sections about liquid intake and nutrition to learn more.