Dehydration Test
If an individual is even slightly dehydrated then the problems that can occur, include:
- A reduction in concentration
- Less effective exercising
- Feeling lethargic
- Increased hunger
The cheapest and simplest way to test an individual’s hydration level is to analyse their urine. When the individual next visits the toilet, ask them to pay attention to the colour of their urine. Then match up the colour to the descriptions below:
| Colour | Dehydration Level |
|---|---|
| Clear or Pale Yellow | Not dehydrated. Level of fluid intake is at a good level |
| Darker Yellow | Hydration levels are okay. Could benefit from drinking a bit more |
| Brownish Green | Very dehydrated. Liquid, especially water, should be drunk immediately |
The amount of water required on a daily basis varies depending on the lifestyle of the individual. It is a suggested that the average individual drinks 1 ½ litres a day. However, if the day consists of a lot of physical activity or the body is sweating a lot then more water should be drunk.