Study finds average person in UK drinks less than half the daily recommended amount of water

According to a new survey by OnePoll, on behalf of Volvic Touch of Fruit, the average Brit drinks just four glasses of water a day – with most people hydrating with tea and coffee instead. A study of 2,000 adults revealed they typically consume 740ml a day of H20 – less than half the recommended daily amount of two litres of fluid.

Instead, 24% stay hydrated using tea, while one in five (20%) would rather sip on a cup of coffee. But almost two-thirds (64%) are aware they should drink more water than they currently do each day, with as many as half (49%) claiming they often forget.

“We’re seeing a nation struggling to stay hydrated, despite knowing how crucial it is to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.”

The research also found four in ten weren’t sure how much they drink in a typical day, and the study found that 24% are just too busy to fit regular sips into their schedule.

Gemma Morgan, a spokeswoman from Volvic, said: “We’re seeing a nation struggling to stay hydrated, despite knowing how crucial it is to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.”

The research also found that, for 60% hydration is important to more than their physical health – as they agree they feel happier and healthier when they’ve drank enough.

Heading into the new year, 28% of adults have vowed to stay more hydrated in 2023, while 27% are eager to cut back on the number of sugary drinks they consume.

Flavoured water is a favourite for 22%, and 41% have tried flavouring their own beverages as a way to convince themselves to drink more. Those polled are more inclined to lean towards fresh and fruity tastes, followed by zingy and citrussy notes – with lemon and strawberry being the most popular tastes.

The OnePoll study also found one in four (26%) would drink more water if it tasted better.

Gemma Morgan added: “We want people to know that drinking enough water is not only essential, but can be done in a fun and delicious way, and we hope to help people achieve their goals.”