Thanks for your question, which is really relevant at the moment with this hot weather! We all need to ensure we are drinking sufficient water to remain hydrated and healthy.

In my view, sparkling water is fine if drunk in moderation. If drunk in excess, the gas it contains may cause bloating and some varieties contain sodium, which can cause water retention and further bloating. Not something you want to encourage when you are trying to lose weight! So, I would try and keep it to an occasional glass when you want a change.

Here are some tips to help you, and anyone else reading this answer, increase your water intake without too much effort:

You are naturally thirsty (dehydrated) in the morning, so re-hydrate and help your body

flush out the toxins it has been processing all night by drinking a glass of water first thing.

Drinking a mug of hot water with lemon before breakfast will help cleanse your system.

If you are cold, drink warm water with a slice of fresh ginger instead of coffee & tea.

Don't wait until you're thirsty to have a drink ? you are already dehydrated if you feel thirsty.

Set a timer to remind yourself to establish a habit of drinking water

Keep a large bottle of water with you at work and a smaller one with you when you are out.

If you drink a lot of coffee, tea, or sodas with caffeine, you'll need to drink a few extra glasses of water to compensate for these diuretic beverages.

Add lemon or lime to water to tone your liver and add flavour.

Drink water near to body temperature. Very cold water can over-stimulate the kidneys.

Spread your water intake throughout the day & drink most of your quota before 6p.m.

Try herbal teas in place of tea or coffee. These count towards your daily requirement.

Drink before you eat - you may be thirsty rather than hungry!