Knowledge and perceptions of hydrationa survey among adults in the United Kingdom, France and Spain

Abstract

Rationale: Proper hydration is critical to human health and wellbeing. Currently, little is known about the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding hydration among the general adult population. A survey was conducted to explore some of the misunderstanding around hydration. Methods: A web-based survey was designed to elicit information about knowledge and understanding of hydration, dehydration and overhydration. The structured questionnaire took approximately 10 minutes to complete. Descriptive statistics are presented. Results: 3,000 adults (18-65 years) completed the survey (1,000 adults/country in United Kingdom, France and Spain). Overall, 43% and 33% of the sample did not know adequate daily intake of water for men and women, respectively. The majority of participants incorrectly believed that everyone should drink eight glasses of plain water each day (78%). Urine colour was the most recognised indicator of proper hydration (85%) and 81% of the sample recognised tiredness as symptom of dehydration. Knowledge of the symptoms of overhydration was poor with < 50% of participants able to identify common symptoms. Conclusions: Given the implications for public health, knowledge among the general adult population should be improved with regard to awareness of adequate water intakes, dietary sources of water, symptoms of dehydration and overhydration.