Your body is around 60 percent water. Every system of your body relies upon water to function properly. Therefore, it's of vital importance that your daily fluid intake is sufficient.

If you don't get enough fluid you may feel tired or dizzy, experience headaches, joint pain or become constipated. Severe dehydration can even result in death.

You may be surprised to learn that around 20 percent of your daily fluid intake comes from the food you eat. Some foods, such as watermelon, cucumber, even broccoli, have an extremely high water content.

The other 80 percent of your fluid intake comes directly from beverages. So, yes, coffee, tea, fruit juice, milk and soda count towards your daily fluid intake. However, it’s best if most of the fluid you consume throughout the day is water. Water is cheap and easily accessible, plus it doesn’t add extra calories.

Remember that while the occasional glass of juice or soda is fine, such drinks can add many extra calories without helping to satisfy hunger, and can also increase your risk of tooth decay.

The best way to stay hydrated is to drink water throughout the day. Have a glass with each meal and one between meals. If you don't like the taste of water, try flavoring it naturally with slices of lemon or orange, or fresh mint leaves. Some people find it easier to sip water through a straw.