Exploring Drinking Water Purity Standards

It’s critical that the purity of our drinking water is maintained, as it has significant and far-reaching effects on both public health and environmental sustainability. Safe drinking water allows us to prevent the spread of certain waterborne diseases, helps us avoid chemical exposure through contaminated water, and protects natural aquatic ecosystems by limiting contamination.

Drinking water purity standards in the UK are quite strict and specific, and cover a wide variety of areas, including:

• Micro-organisms
• Chemicals
• Metals
• The look and taste of the water

Our drinking water has to meet stringent standards for all of these areas, and adherence to each one is essential to ensuring that our water is safe for consumption. The establishment and enforcement of these standards are of the utmost importance in keeping us and our environment safe.

Drinking Water Quality in the UK: Standards and Assurance

Water in the UK undergoes a strict series of processes to ensure that when it reaches our taps, it’s safe for consumption. This all begins when the water is collected from its natural source, typically from a reservoir. The water will then undergo extensive treatment. Steps include:

• Screening and sedimentation to remove large particles.
• Coagulation and flocculation add chemicals to clump smaller particles together.
• Filtration to remove and remaining particles.
• Disinfection with chlorine to kill harmful microorganisms.
• pH adjustment to keep acidity within an acceptable range.
• Additional treatments like activated carbon adsorption if needed.

Next, the water is distributed through our vast network of pipes and pumping stations, all of which are monitored constantly to keep standards high. Samples of water are taken regularly to ensure standards are being met at every stage of the process.

What Is In The UK’s Tap Water?

UK tap water contains a wide variety of components, including minerals and disinfectants. It’s important to understand exactly what’s in your drinking water, and why each component is important for your health, and the health of the environment at large.

Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese all exist within our drinking water. These are naturally occurring minerals and are rarely anything to be concerned about.

Disinfectants such as chlorine and chloramines are also in our drinking water. While this may sound alarming at first, these are intentionally added to kill harmful bacteria in our water. The levels of these disinfectants are highly monitored and are so low that they pose no threat to your health or the environment at large.

Water Treatment and Quality Assurance in the UK

Water treatment in the UK is a multi-step process designed to ensure that water remains safe and pure from source to tap. It all begins when the water is sourced, and subsequently enters a treatment facility.

First, the water is screened to remove large debris such as leaves and twigs. This is done using screens or bar racks, and is essential in both making the water cleaner, but also protecting more sensitive equipment in later steps from being damaged by this large debris.

Next, chemicals such as aluminium sulphate are added to the water. These chemicals are coagulants and cause fine particles suspended in the water to be clumped together so that they’re more easily removable.

The water is then allowed to settle in a large storage container, making the clumped contaminants settle at the bottom forming a layer of sludge. The settled water then passes through a variety of layers of sand, gravel, and sometimes activated carbon to filter it. This removes particles, and impurities from the water.

Disinfection is the next major step in the process, where chemicals are added to kill bacteria and pathogens that may still exist. This is a key step in ensuring that our water is truly safe for consumption.

The pH level is then adjusted to be within an allowable range before a final filtration stage occurs prior to the water being distributed through our water network.

pH Levels of UK Tap Water: Balancing Acidity and Alkalinity

pH levels in UK tap water are regulated to fall within specific limits to ensure it remains palatable, and so that it can elongate the life cycle of the UK’s general water infrastructure. The pH range for tap water in the UK falls between 6.5 and 8.5. This range ensures that contaminants and chemical imbalances are kept to a minimum, as extreme pH levels can contribute to the growth of microorganisms that are harmful to humans.

Maintaining a standard pH level is also vital in ensuring the longevity of our water infrastructure. Water with particularly low or high pH levels can lead to the rapid corrosion of the pipes that transport water to its end destination. This also makes it more likely that metals can be leached into water, further endangering anyone who drinks it.

The Framework of Drinking Water Standards in the UK

To maintain extremely high standards of water quality within the UK, there’s an expensive regulatory framework that all utilities and authorities within the water process must adhere to. This framework forms the basis for the monitoring, testing, and reporting processes that keep us safe on a day-to-day basis.

We want to continue keeping water clean, so why not get in touch with us today to explore the best water filter options available?

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Embracing The Power of Eco-Friendly Water Solutions

Reducing overall single-use plastic use will massively reduce plastic waste, which has a far-reaching knock-on effect on the environment. Plastic pollution will fall with less plastic entering landfills and oceans, ecosystems will become more protected as our waterways deal with less waste being dumped in them, and we’ll be able to conserve resources much better as the energy and materials used in the water bottling process are spared.

Our eco-friendly solutions will drastically reduce your carbon footprint by actively reducing the production, transportation, and disposal processes typically associated with bottled water. By opting for BIBO Water and our wide range of water solutions, you’re making a conscious decision to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and the emissions associated with them.

Eco-Friendly Water Bottles: Sustainable Hydration on the Go

Eco-conscious consumers should also consider investing in reusable water bottles to maximise their contribution to a more sustainable planet. You can instantly reduce your use and reliance on single-use plastics, minimise your carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable lifestyle to those around you — all while saving money in the long term.

Our bottles are designed with sustainability in mind. They’re practical, portable, and can help you avoid the money trap of constantly buying bottled water. They’re also significantly better for the environment. Every year, millions of plastic bottles end up in the ocean. They slowly break down into micro-plastics which can be extremely damaging to any marine life. This is also a problem for us, with microplastics more likely to end up in our food, or even our bottled water in a vicious cycle of pollution. Using one of our reusable water bottles (and our filtered water dispensers) can help you avoid all of this without having to even think about it.

Reducing Plastic Waste in the UK: Combating the Crisis

The actions we all take now could have far-reaching impacts on building a cleaner and more sustainable future for everyone. While more needs to be done by large businesses and governments, there’s still plenty you can do in your own life to help the cause.

Encourage your workplace to invest in a water dispenser to encourage a move away from single-use plastics.
Make informed shopping choices, only buying from brands with minimal or no plastic packaging as much as possible.
Participate in or organise local community cleanup events to remove plastic waste from your local area.

There’s also a host of new technologies emerging that can help pave the way towards a plastic-free environment. 3D printing using plastic waste, biodegradable water filters, and the advancement of bio-plastic production are all revolutionary concepts that could make a huge impact.

Plastic Water Bottle Pollution: Impact and Alternatives

The hidden environmental and societal costs of plastic bottles are much larger than you might think. Ecosystems are being disrupted by plastic debris entering oceans and rivers, marine life is being destroyed as they mistake plastic for food, and toxic chemicals are being leached into our environment as plastic becomes exposed to heat and sunlight. This is damaging the world around us, but it also has a direct effect on our own health. Consuming micro-plastics can lead to severe health concerns that we’re only beginning to truly understand.

The solution? Swap your single-use bottle for one of BIBO’s sustainable water containers and use a water dispenser instead of buying bottled water. These simple steps, when done by many, can have a profound effect on reducing the impact of plastic waste.

How Can BIBO Help Reduce Plastic?

In conclusion, the pressing issue of reducing plastic waste is undeniably significant, and BIBO Water is fully committed to being part of the solution. Our eco-friendly water solutions offer a potent means to address the urgent matter of plastic pollution, and it’s not solely about environmental concerns; it’s about making a positive impact on our lives.

By opting for BIBO Water, you’re not just diminishing plastic waste; you’re actively contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Our eco-conscious water solutions substantially diminish your carbon footprint by eliminating the necessity for plastic water bottles. You’re consciously deciding to reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and the associated emissions, aligning your actions with a more sustainable way of life.

Investing in our sustainable water bottles further magnifies your contribution to a plastic-free world. These reusable bottles are not just practical and portable but also ecologically responsible. By lessening your reliance on single-use plastics, you’re not only saving money but also shielding marine life, avoiding the cycle of pollution caused by microplastics, and safeguarding your own health from potential risks linked to plastic consumption.

Get In Touch With BIBO

The fight against plastic waste is a joint effort, and you have the power to make a difference. Encourage workplaces to embrace water dispensers, opt for products with minimal packaging, and participate in community cleanup initiatives. Innovations like 3D printing using plastic waste and biodegradable water filters show promise in moving towards a plastic-free future.

Incorporate BIBO Water into your daily routine, reduce plastic waste, and be a part of the movement towards a cleaner, healthier planet. Get in touch with us today to explore how our eco-friendly water solutions can elevate your hydration experience while contributing to a more sustainable world. Together, we can combat the plastic crisis and forge lasting positive change.

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How Does Water Help your Body?

It’s common knowledge that while humans can survive for weeks without food, the body can’t endure more than two to three days without fluid. But do you know why? Below are some of the most crucial reasons to drink water and the role it plays in your vital bodily functions:

Control body temperature

Perspiration acts as your body’s personal cooling system. When your body heats up, you sweat to cool down.

Manage blood pressure

Drinking more water relaxes your blood vessels and lowers your blood pressure.

Protect heart health

Some research suggests that good hydration can prevent or slow heart changes that could lead to heart failure.

Regulate bowel movements

Water softens stools, making them easier to pass: the more fluids you drink, the easier it is for your body to eliminate waste.

Transport nutrients and oxygen

Water carries nutrients and oxygen to your body’s cells.

Regulate mood

Hydration calms your nerves, helping maintain the delicate balance of dopamine and serotonin in your brain.

Lubricate and protect the body

Water helps to keep your joints flexible and protects your spine.

Get rid of waste

Water helps your kidneys flush out waste and toxins via urine.

Maintain a healthy metabolism

Water helps your body break down food. This begins with saliva, which helps with swallowing, and continues with the absorption of nutrients through digestion.

Retain Moisture

Water keeps the tissues in your body moist, such as your eyes, where water helps form tears.

So how much water do you need to support all this activity? Your body is constantly losing water through breathing, sweating and going to the toilet. In addition, physical activity and hot weather increase water loss.

Daily water intake recommendations

The standard recommendation is to drink six to eight glasses of water daily to combat dehydration. This is based on 200ml servings, meaning daily fluid intake should be between 1200ml and 1600ml. However, your unique needs are influenced by various factors, from weight and age to activity level, environmental temperature and health conditions. So it’s best to listen to your body. It will send out warning signals if it becomes dehydrated.

8 signs of dehydration

Whilst we can’t know exactly how many people suffer from dehydration around the world on any given day, the International Longevity Centre (ILC) UK reported that a quarter of all care home patients who are admitted to the hospital are dehydrated. That’s why it is so important to look out for the signs:

• thirst
• headaches
• dizziness
• tiredness
• dark coloured or strong-smelling urine
• poor concentration
• constipation
• dry mouth, lips or eyes

Nearly all the body’s major systems depend on water to function and survive. So if you notice any of these signs, make topping up your hydration levels an immediate priority. You might be surprised how quickly you feel much better.

However, prevention is better than cure! If you need some hydration hacks to make drinking water effortless, convenient and fun, check out our tips and tricks. Alternatively, why not experiment with some delicious sparkling water recipes.

But don’t worry; even plain water tastes delicious with a water filter. The BIBO Classic uses a multi-stage filtration system with a silver-impregnated carbon block filter and a powerful UV lamp, leaving your water pure and delicious.

The Bibo Classic also cools and heats water at the touch of a button: perfect for summer refreshers and winter warmers to help you feel your best all year round.

The post 10 reasons why your body needs water! appeared first on BIBO.

We get it, it’s hard to know how best to get your fill. We dove into the facts to bust the most widely circulated hydration myths and get you on track to a healthy, happy and perfectly sated lifestyle.

Myth: Everyone needs to drink eight glasses of water a day

Whilst this is the figure recommended by the NHS for people in the UK, it’s important to note this is an average estimation. How much water your body needs is a highly personal affair and depends on a wide range of variable factors from body weight and age to activity level, environmental temperature and health conditions. If you’re unsure how much water you should be drinking, sticking to the recommended eight glasses is a good place to start but let your body be your guide. Still thirsty? Drink some more. Running to the toilet every two minutes? Drink a little less.

Myth: The only way to hydrate is by drinking water

No, no my friend! This is one of the biggest hydration myths going. It’s true that water is a guaranteed source of hydration, but our bodies also gets a fantastic watering from the food we eat as well as other types of beverages. In fact, research shows that around 80% of the water we consume comes from drinking water and other liquids – such as milk, juices and caffeinated drinks – and the other 20% comes from our food consumption. Fruits and vegetables in particular carry a very high percentage of water content. Cucumber and lettuce, for example, have an astronomical 96% water content, whilst tomatoes carry a huge 94%. Remember when your GP told you to eat your 5 a day? It makes a little more sense now.

Myth: Coffee makes you dehydrated

How many times has someone told you that your love affair with caffeine is terrible for your hydration levels? But this isn’t strictly true – it’s all about balance. It’s true that caffeine acts a diuretic, causing your kidneys to flush extra sodium and water from the body through urine, but experts have suggested this doesn’t necessarily lead to dehydration. When you drink coffee – or a cup of tea for that matter – you’re also taking in a large fluid dose of water and hydrating yourself. It’s just important to realise that drinking coffee shouldn’t be your only source of hydration. Mix up your cup of joe routine with regular glasses of water or juices to give your body some varied balance and reap the rewards.

Myth: You can never drink too much water

This is the deadliest of hydration myths – be warned! You can absolutely drink too much water. In fact, Runner’s World recently interviewed Professor Doug Kasa who specialises in kinesiology at the University of Connecticut who explained that consuming too much water can cause a condition known as ‘symptomatic hyponatremia’, where sodium levels in the blood can drop to extremely low and dangerous levels.

This means that overhydration is especially dangerous for those with certain medical conditions. For the average Joe, the kidneys are able to absorb the water our bodies need whilst getting rid of the excess through urination. But for those with kidney, liver, or even heart problems, this may not be the case. Low sodium levels caused by drinking an extremely high level of water can lead to mild symptoms such as a lack of concentration and having little energy, but in severe cases where overhydration happens rapidly, it can cause severe confusion or even seizures.

Myth: Clear pee is the only way to tell if you’re properly hydrated

We were certainly told this growing up, but this hydration myth isn’t strictly true. Rather than a crystal clear stream, experts say we should be aiming for urine which resembles a pale yellow colour similar to lemonade. Clear pee simply means our bladder is completely full and that whatever we are imbibing is simply coming straight back out. The only time you need to be paying attention to your urine is when the colour is anything darker than a honey yellow (this can often pong quite a bit too). If you haven’t realised already, our bodies are pretty clever, and a dark coloured pee is your bladder letting you know that you’re dehydrated and it’s time to drink up!

Have a question about how BIBO can help you hydrate effectively?

If you want to know more about how BIBO can help you to achieve the perfect level of hydration every day, get in touch with our expert team today. Our friendly advisers are happy to fend off any other hydration myths you may have and will walk you through exactly how our BIBO products can directly benefit your health and lifestyle.

The post Water the facts? Biggest hydration myths busted appeared first on BIBO.

Hydrate before you go

It’s always tempting to get out the front door and hit your stride before you have a chance to convince yourself to swap that morning jog for a nice cuppa on the sofa – but ensuring your fluid levels are suitably topped up is an absolute must before you set off! That’s where your trusty BIBO Classic comes to the rescue, providing you with instant filtered water at the perfect temperature, set by you. Whether you are pounding the pavement early doors or heading out for a late-night power walk, regularly drinking water will make sure your body is hydrated, primed and ready for exercise.

On the run

It might be that when you’re aiming for your PB on a quick weekend run, carrying a water bottle isn’t the most practical – in fact, it can be quite the annoying and cumbersome affair. However, there are plenty of ergonomically shaped water bottles perfectly designed as a running accessory to make your hydration easy and effortless when you’re on the go. Look out for bottles designed with handles that are easily gripped so they can work in harmonious tandem with your natural running arm motion. You can also consider using two small water bottles, so both of your arms are working equally (who needs dumbbells?) or stick to one and regularly rotate (great if you need a distraction on a difficult hill)! Either way, handheld bottles are amazing at fulfilling your hydration needs on those shorter length runs.

If holding a bottle isn’t for you, there are other accessories that make it easy to carry water on a run. If you are heading out on a longer route, then perhaps a running belt is your perfect match. Sitting securely on the waist, a running belt can help store essentials and provide compartments for water bottles with more capacity, helping you hydrate for longer. Running belts can come in all shapes and sizes, and are great for those who like to focus on the run at hand, topping up on fluids when it suits them. Belts can also give you handy storage space for keys, gel packs, or your phone.

For those not convinced by the belt, a running vest could be just the ticket. Working more like a slim-line backpack, running vests can contain thin water packs that sit close to your body with an easily accessible straw or could provide sturdier holsters for water bottles. The real benefit of a running vest is all in the support they provide – if you’re a dedicated long-distance runner, a vest can tend to your hydration needs and distribute weight more effectively across your body than a belt or a handheld bottle.

Remember that there’s no problem mixing and matching between vests, belts, and bottles. Although you could end up looking like the water-wielding terminator if you wore all of them at the same time, your choice of equipment all depends on you, your running style, and the run itself. Take your time, read the reviews, and test them out but know there is a solution out there for everyone!

Rehydrate at home

The final piece of the puzzle is not forgetting to hydrate once you cross the finish line! Dehydration can lead to headaches and muscle cramping, so getting some water on board post-run is vital. Hit the kitchen, and enjoy some fresh, cold, filtered water at the touch of a button with your BIBO Classic, sit back and revel in those endorphins!

Have a question?

Get in touch with our expert team to find out more about our range! We’re more than happy to answer any questions or queries you may have.

The post How to easily carry water on a run appeared first on BIBO.

Some signs of dehydration are quite severe, such as migraines, dizziness and headaches. But some symptoms are very subtle and often go unnoticed, including dry skin, fatigue and needing the loo a little less than usual. That’s why it’s so important to discover the best ways to stay hydrated and start implementing them today. 

The great news is, staying hydrated is easy, and it can also be fun! Plus, it’s not just water that keeps our levels of hydration up, as we’re going to discover. 

Today, we’re going to take a deep dive into how to stay hydrated in order to remain active, healthy and lead a full life. We’re going to discuss the dangers of dehydration and why it’s so important to keep yourself hydrated. And, of course, we’ll give you lots of tips and advice on which drinks are best and how to incorporate them into your diet. 

So sit back and relax and let’s begin.

Dangers of Dehydration

Dehydration is what happens when your body loses more fluid than it takes in. We all know the sensation of dry mouth or feeling thirsty, but these are not necessarily the best ways to gauge dehydration, and there are many other symptoms that people often don’t associate with being dehydrated.

Common symptoms or signs of dehydration include fatigue, lightheadedness and an inability to concentrate. These things can really affect your day, such as your work or even home life, if you find it hard to enjoy your free time and/or be productive. 

Other physical signs include constipation, dry skin and less urination. But that’s not all! In some cases, severe dehydration can cause much more serious health problems, including an inability to produce sweat, low blood pressure, sunken eyes and even disorientation. And, not to scare you, but in the most extreme cases dehydration can sometimes lead to death, if not treated quickly and effectively. 

So how do we combat this potentially disastrous catalogue of health issues? We need to stay hydrated! And it’s easier than you think. 

Why We Need to Stay Hydrated

Being fully hydrated does not mean that you simply don’t get thirsty. It’s so much more than that, and hydration has an essential part to play and how our bodies function on a daily basis. 

For example, remaining adequately hydrated is crucial to regulating your body temperature. It also acts as a lubricant for your joints and bones. Not to mention, without good hydration our organs do not function properly, and our bodies ability to deliver nutrients to cells and prevent infection is also compromised.

But if you’re fully hydrated, you’ll feel tip top throughout your day! That means better productivity at work and more time spent enjoying the things you love with friends and family. Plus, hydration affects our mood and sleep, so you can look forward to feeling more positive all-round and getting a better night’s rest. 

So as you can see, hydration is a bit more serious than some of us have given it credit for. But if you’re feeling daunted, or even a bit nervous about improving your hydration and health, have no fear! We’re here to give you everything you need to know about how to stay hydrated and live your best life.

How to Stay Hydrated

For many of us, we have this image that drinking a sufficient amount of water involves downing glasses upon glasses of water all throughout the day and peeing continuously. However, staying hydrated doesn’t need to be daunting, and it definitely doesn’t need to be boring. 

The ‘EatWell Guide’ says that we should drink 6 to 8 cups of glasses of fluid a day, and you’ll be pleased to know that milk, soft drinks, tea and coffee are all included in this quota. 

Depending on where you live, you may need to take in more fluids than others. This is the case if you live in a hot or very dry climate, which will dehydrate you more rapidly than living in a cold and/or wet location. As a rule of thumb, children need slightly less fluid and older people need slightly more. Your lifestyle also affects your hydration levels, and if you’re someone who works out often, then you can expect to add on some more glasses of fluid per day. 

As expected, water remains King of the Beverages, but you can also top up your hydration levels with other drinks, such as tea and coffee, soft drinks and smoothies. But water will always be our first choice! Plus, you can spice up your water by adding a slice of fruit, a splash of concentrate, or even simply by swapping still water for sparkling. Water is so fabulously versatile, and doesn’t come with any added sugar or colourants. All hail H20! 

But, while we love nothing more than a glass of delicious, filtered, chilled water, there are plenty of other ways to stay hydrated. So with that in mind, let’s check out some great ways to keep those levels of hydration up throughout the day.  

Milk and Semi Skimmed Milk

If you’re old enough to remember the old slogan ‘nice cold ice cold milk’, then you’ll know that a tall glass of chilled milk can be extremely refreshing. 

Full of calcium and important minerals, milk helps with various bodily functions, including keeping you hydrated. Although it’s not advisable to get all of your 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day via milk, the odd delicious and creamy glass of the white stuff can do wonders for your health and keep you nice and hydrated at the same time. 

However, do keep in mind that full fat milk is, as the name suggests, full of fat! We therefore recommend skimmed or semi-skimmed varieties, or even nut or soy milk alternatives, if you’re going to drink milk regularly.

Fruit Juices and Smoothies

Fruit juices and smoothies, depending on what you put in them, offer a whole world of nutrients and vitamins. If possible, try to consume the whole fruit (smoothies), as this is where most of the benefits lie. 

That said, the juice from fruits will still offer you lots of lovely nutrition, as well as keeping you hydrated throughout the day. Plus, smoothies and juices are definitely some of the most delicious drinks you can put into your system. 

However, fruit juices bought from a shop are often laced with unnecessary added sugar, so if you can find freshly squeezed juice and/or make your own smoothies, then this is definitely the most beneficial and a more low-fat option.

Fizzy Drinks and Squash with Added Sugar

While fizzy drinks should only be consumed in moderation, they still help with hydration. But do be careful not to consume too many cans of pop, as they are full of sugar, artificial sweeteners and e-numbers. 

A healthy alternative is to take some fresh chilled and filtered water and add a little squash. Again, if you can avoid squashes with tons of added sugar, then you will get all of the benefits of hydration without putting unnecessary nasties into your system. We recommend citrus-based squashes, such as lemon or lime, which tend to be slightly lower in added sugar.

Energy and Caffeine Drinks

Another set of drinks only to be consumed in moderation are high caffeine or energy drinks, such as Red Bull or Monster Energy. While these drinks are definitely tasty, and pack quite a punch when it comes to caffeine, they are also chock-full of added sugar, colourants and e-numbers. 

And although a healthy adult is safe to consume these drinks in small quantities, they should be completely avoided by children at all times. So even though these drinks aren’t the best for you in a nutritional sense, they still offer adequate hydration if consumed in moderation.

Tea and Coffee

Chances are you drink either tea or coffee, or both! Most of us love to start our day with a hot drink, and we usually enjoy the little buzz of caffeine that tea and coffee provide. 

The good news is, both of these drinks offer high levels of hydration, as they are both made with large volumes of water. Of the two, tea is more beneficial, especially if you opt for varieties such as green, black or rooibos. 

But regardless of which hot drink you prefer, avoid adding sugar to tea or coffee, in order to eliminate unnecessary calories, and keep up your hydration. Also, avoiding fancy coffees with whipped cream, syrups and the oh-so-cute-and-delicious marshmallows on top will also help you enjoy your favourite hot drink without adding unneeded calories into your diet. 

Sports Drinks

Sports drinks manufacturers have done a fantastic job of marketing their beverages as beneficial for people who live active lifestyles. 

One thing that they usually purport is that these drinks are specifically designed to encourage hydration. And although they often have added extras, such as electrolytes and vitamins, sports drinks still also contain lots of added sugar. This puts them in the same category as things like fizzy drinks, squashes and energy drinks. 

Full of sweeteners and often added sugar, these are on the list of drinks that should only be consumed in moderation.

Fruit and Veg

Good old fruit and veg! If you love your veggies, then you may already know that a good intake of fruits and vegetables is a fantastic way to keep on top of your hydration. 

Many common fruits and vegetables are made up of as much as 90% water, so not only are they packed full of flavour, nutrients and other lovely good stuff, but they also keep you hydrated throughout the day. 

Things like tomatoes and cucumbers in a salad, or a big juicy piece of watermelon as a dessert or snack, can seriously boost your hydration without you even noticing it. Not to mention, if you like your smoothies and juices, then why not fling a few high water content staples in there as well? Your smoothies will not just taste better, but they will also offer you far greater levels of hydration as well.

Tips to Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

Now that you know all about which drinks you should stock up on, and which ones you should minimise, it’s time to take a look at some tips on how to stay hydrated throughout the day. 

Firstly, we recommend starting your day with a glass of water. This helps to kick-start your metabolism, and will also top up your hydration levels after a night of sleep. 

If you want to seriously up your water consumption, then we recommend carrying around a reusable bottle. Not only will this help the environment by keeping more plastic out of bins, but you will also have a nice little reminder throughout your day to top up and drink more water. To the same end, you can also set an alarm or a reminder to drink more water at regular intervals.Plus, drinking a glass of water before every meal helps with digestion and is a great way to get those extra glasses of fluid into your diet. We also recommend that you drink a glass of water within 2 hours of going to bed, as this will aid a more restful sleep and keep you hydrated throughout the night. 

Finally, check the colour of your urine when you go to the toilet. Dark orange or brown urine is a sign of dehydration, so up your water intake until your urine becomes a light straw colour. This is the ideal colour for your pee brackets (yes, there’s an ideal colour for pee!) 

Finally, keep track of your water consumption throughout the day and try to limit your intake of fizzy drinks or drinks laced with lots of sugar. Remember, you can always liven up your water by opting for sparkling over still, as well as adding in a drop of low-sugar squash and/or pieces of fruit.

How BIBO Helps People Stay Hydrated and Healthy

Our mission, as a water dispenser provider, is to help you keep hydrated with the freshest, tastiest and healthiest water around. BIBO customers who install one of our state-of-the-art water dispensers can access both ice-cold and boiling-hot water in an instant, ideal for making a refreshing soft drink, tea, coffee or juice. 

Plus, BIBO customers enjoy all the benefits of filtered water. Free from chlorine and other nasty contaminants as well as keeping all of the good minerals you will find naturally in water. Our BIBO water dispensers use carbon-block filters and UV lamp purification system, so you know you’re getting the freshest glass of water possible, without having to buy endless bottles of mineral water!

Once you have increased your hydration, you can look forward to some incredible benefits which include a better ability to concentrate, an improved ability to control weight gain and all-round better digestive help. Other perks include more subtle joints, better skin texture and vastly improved bodily and organ functions. 

Finally, hydrated people are more productive and find themselves in a consistently better mood than those who do not drink enough fluid. So go forth and be happy…with perfectly coloured pee, of course!

As we’ve seen, keeping yourself hydrated is easy, and can be a great way to introduce new and interesting drinks into your diet. The best ways to stay hydrated include drinking fresh fruit juices and smoothies, eating delicious fruit and veg and, of course, drinking lots of water. 

So if you’re looking to increase your water intake, and you want filtered, fresh and tasty hot and cold water at the touch of a button, we recommend our BIBO water dispensers for all your H20 needs! They’re modern, compact and cost-effective, so staying hydrated has never been easier. 

For help selecting your new water dispenser, as well as answers to our most frequently asked questions about installation and maintenance, check out our FAQ page, call us or fill out our online webform.

How can BIBO help me stay hydrated?

Want to find out more about how BIBO can help you to drink more water? Get in touch with our expert team to find out more about our range! We’re more than happy to answer any questions or queries you may have.

The post Top Ways to Stay Hydrated appeared first on BIBO.

So how do you remember to drink more water every day? We’ve put together a hotlist of our favourite hacks that’ll have you hydrated in no time.

Easy ways to drink more water

Download an app

Call it lazy, call it tech-crazy, call it whatever you like; there’s an app for everything these days and you best believe there is a whole host of them that remind you to drink water. One of our favourites is Plant Nanny as it’s such a fun and engaging way to stay hydrated. Not only does the app help you to keep track of what you drink but there are serious consequences if you skip a sip as every time you water yourself, you water your app’s plants too! Forget to hydrate and you risk the health of your thriving little flower babies – imagine self-care Tamagotchi and you’re pretty close.

Fancy something a little more technical? Drink Water Reminder is super tailored to your lifestyle, taking into account your age, activity level, and even what kind of climate you live in. You can easily tell the app how often you want to drink water as well as your average waking and sleeping hours to customise your reminders around your lifestyle. 

Invest in a reusable bottle

Investing in a reusable water bottle to have by your side throughout the day is a great way to ensure you’re staying hydrated and alert. Not only will you not have to venture to the kitchen every time you want a drink, but you’ll also be doing the environment a favour too as you’ll never need to buy a plastic bottle when you’re out and about again! Keeping a water bottle handy can also serve as a visual reminder to drink more water day to day. When you see the bottle on your desk when you’re working from home or next to you on the sofa when you’re catching up on your latest boxset, you’ll automatically be reminded to drink more – result.

Drink a glass of water before every meal

A simple way to up your water intake is to make sure you drink a glass of water before every meal. If you make a routine out of drinking a pint of the good stuff before breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day that’s already three more cups than usual – it’s elementary my dear Watson!

Plus, sometimes our bodies can mistake feelings of thirst for hunger so if you’re looking to get a little healthier, drinking water before eating is a great way to aid digestion as well as assess how hungry you actually are before mealtime. 

Flavour your water

Want to jazz things up a little? Why not add some natural flavours to your water using herbs, berries and veggies to keep things interesting. Popular combinations include cucumber, lemon and lime, and raspberries but feel free to get creative with your favourite flavours from your store cupboard. Think about it, you won’t have to remind yourself to drink more water if it’s so delicious now, will you! Moreover, fruit infusions are a fantastic and tasty way to gift your body with more nutrients.

Need some inspo and fancy a little fizz in your sip? We’ve been experimenting in the taste lab with our BIBO Fizz machine, adding bubbles to all types of flavours to discover the best summer combinations. Check out our creative sparkling water recipes and hydrate in style. 

Make it a ritual

Your body is a temple and it deserves to be treated as such! Build having a glass of water into your morning routine; we all wake up feeling dehydrated so do yourself a favour and keep a glass of water next to your bed. We can guarantee you’ll be feeling much perkier and more alert as soon as you start drinking more water before the daily grind starts. 

Top BIBO tip: we set our morning alarm with the title ‘DRINK WATER’ for a cheeky reminder first thing.

Want to find out more about how BIBO can help you to drink more water? Get in touch with our expert team to find out more about our range! We’re more than happy to answer any questions or queries you may have.

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Not only are kitchen plants a brilliantly inexpensive way to spruce up any space, but they also bring many other great benefits to the table! Houseplants in the kitchen can purify your air, boost mood, increase morale and productivity, and even make your favourite recipes taste a little better!

Best kitchen plants to suit your lifestyle:

Spider Plant

The humble Spider Plant is widely known for being one of the easiest plants to maintain and a great starter for those new to the houseplant game. Spider plants also rank amongst the best houseplants for air quality as they produce oxygen and purify the air in your kitchen by battling environmental toxins such as carbon monoxide and xylene. Have a baby of the human or fur variety? No qualms! This beauty is non-toxic to both humans and animals, making a perfect non-risk plant edition to your home.

CARE TIPS AND TRICKS: Blossom bosses Interflora suggest these plants enjoy bright light but will not fare well if placed in direct sunlight for long periods of time. They also don’t like too be watered too much, an attribute which makes them perfect for forgetful owners!

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is not just a pretty little thing, but a practical one too. This sun-loving succulent is another air purifier, adept at clearing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene, byproducts found in many cleaners. But let’s not play coy, we all know Aloe Vera is a household name due to its incredible healing qualities. The gel inside its leaves is full of vitamins and naturally anti-bacterial making it ideal for treating minor cuts and burns including sunburn. Particularly helpful if you accidentally grab onto that hot pan without your oven gloves! To reap the rewards of this helpful houseplant you can apply it topically: simply snap off a leaf, tear it in half and rub the gel-laden inside of the leaf over the affected area for instant relief from the irritation you’re suffering.

CARE TIPS AND TRICKS: Almanac.com recommends placing your Aloe Vera in bright, indirect sunlight or artificial light in your kitchen. Water deeply, but infrequently – just like the Spider Plant, Aloe Vera isn’t very needy at all and copes very well with busy bees with a schedule that doesn’t allow for daily watering.

Basil

Across the world, and throughout history, Basil has long been regarded as one of the earth’s most treasured herbs. From its medicinal and health qualities to its delicious and distinct taste, the Basil plant is an essential houseplant for your kitchen. After all – it’s surely a win-win situation if the Basil plant on your window sill is aiding your digestion and promoting a healthy gut at the same time as making your ragu sauce sing, right?

Looking for a quick way to enjoy the health benefits of Basil? Add it to your water! We love to infuse the chilled, filtered water from our BIBO machine with Basil for a tasty morning treat. Simply add 2 chopped limes, 4 chopped strawberries, and a handful of torn basil leaves to 1.5L of chilled water and enjoy!  

CARE TIPS AND TRICKS: thektchn.com has shared that Basil loves plenty of sun, dislikes cold, drafty areas, and likes a moist soil. We’ve also personally found that Basil grows particularly well when potted in a new, and slightly larger, pot than the one you originally bought it in. Harvest frequently and you’re onto a winner!

Sansevieria

Known as the Snake Plant or ‘Mother-In-Law’s Tongue’ (let’s keep that one on the down-low), the Sansevieria is also up there as one of the best houseplants for air purification in the home, let alone the kitchen. In fact, Interflora has revealed how the experts at NASA have found this yellow-tipped plant to be highly effective at removing the harmful toxins that naturally build up in the home. Sansevieria also releases oxygen at night as well as in the daytime, helping you to breathe easier before you hit the hay. 

CARE TIPS AND TRICKS: The snake plant is extremely durable. Although it prefers buckets of bright light, it’ll survive pretty well if this isn’t possible. Make sure not to overwater your Sansevieria as the roots can rot if the soil is overly moist for a long time.

Peace Lily

Peace Lilies are well-known and admired for their shiny green leaves and white, elegantly splayed flowers. Like many of the other houseplants on this list, they too are incredible air purifiers and also feature on NASA’s list of Top Ten Household Air Cleaning Plants for its ability to break down toxic gases like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. Peace Lilies, however, go one step further, removing mould spores from the air for the ultimate air quality experience! 

CARE TIPS AND TRICKS: Country Living recommends bright light for the perfect bloom, although they note the Peace Lily can tolerate and survive in low light. Overall, it’s a carefree plant that is pretty difficult to kill, just as long as you keep the soil lightly moist and don’t drown it with overly frequent watering.

Want to find out more about how BIBO can help you to make your kitchen a happy and healthy space? Get in touch with our expert team to find out more about our range! We’re more than happy to answer any questions or queries you may have.

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