All individuals need water for drinking every day. Inadequate consumption of water, either by drinking or through food, can lead to dehydration of the body and ultimately to death. The water requirement of individuals for drinking and food preparation will vary according to diet, climate and the type of work they do. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers need more water than other people. The minimum amount of water needed for survival ranges from about 2 litres per capita per day in temperate climates to about 4.5 litres for people in hot climates who have to carry out manual work.

Per capita means per person or per head of population

Last modified: Friday, 27 June 2014, 5:49 PM