Nutrition and Hydration Week: Why What You Eat and Drink Matters

Nutrition and Hydration Week is a time to pause and reflect on something we all do every day: eat and drink. While it might seem simple, getting the right balance of food and fluids plays a huge role in how we feel, function, and stay healthy.

Why Nutrition and Hydration Are So Important

Food and drink are more than just fuel. They support almost every process in the body, including:

• Maintaining energy levels
• Supporting the immune system
• Helping with concentration and mood
• Aiding recovery from illness or injury
• Keeping muscles, bones, and organs working properly

Poor nutrition or dehydration, even at mild levels, can lead to tiredness, headaches, dizziness, poor concentration, and reduced physical strength.

Hydration: The Often-Forgotten Half

Many people don’t realise they are dehydrated until symptoms appear. Our bodies rely on water to regulate temperature, support digestion, and transport nutrients.

Simple tips to stay hydrated:

• Drink regularly throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty
• Aim for pale-coloured urine as a general guide
• Include water-rich foods like fruit, vegetables, soups, and yoghurts
• Remember that tea, coffee, and milk also contribute to fluid intake

Older adults, children, and people who are unwell may be more at risk of dehydration and may need extra reminders to drink.

Eating Well Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Good nutrition doesn’t mean perfection or strict rules. Small, realistic choices make a difference:

• Eat regular meals to keep energy levels steady
• Include a mix of fruits, vegetables, protein, whole grains, and healthy fats
• Listen to hunger and fullness cues
• Enjoy food — eating should be both nourishing and pleasurable

Balanced nutrition supports both physical and mental wellbeing, helping us feel stronger, sharper, and more resilient.

A Week That Encourages Better Habits

Nutrition and Hydration Week is about raising awareness, starting conversations, and encouraging positive habits that can last all year. Whether it’s choosing an extra glass of water, adding more colour to your plate, or checking in on someone who may struggle to eat or drink enough, every small step counts.

The Takeaway

Looking after your nutrition and hydration is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to care for your health. This week is a reminder that food and fluids are essential parts of wellbeing — not just extras.

Because when we eat well and drink enough, we give our bodies the best chance to thrive.

To learn more and get involved, please visit https://nutritionandhydrationweek.co.uk

Check out the Healthy Diet Section and 10 Facts About Hydration