A huge 86% of people are only drinking half of the recommended eight glasses of water a day.
And more than half of us mistakenly believe we are consuming the correct amount.
The RED C research revealed there is a “lack of understanding” among Irish people about the benefits of hydration.
The study found older people are far less likely to hydrate properly with those over 65 drinking an average of just
3.5 glasses of water a day.
Sarah Keogh, a consultant dietician and a member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute, said: “It is alarming 86% of Irish people are not drinking enough water but even more shocking is that people don’t know they should be drinking more.
“Not being hydrated can have significant repercussions for physical health and cognitive functioning. It is extremely easy to increase your consumption by just following a few simple tips.”
The younger generation drink more water, with those aged between 18 and 24 consuming more than five glasses daily.