Water.

[snoopy101]

When I was first diagnosed with AML 19 months ago, my haematologist said I should drink more water a day. The problem I have is I cannot drink water - makes me throw up/gag.

I drink 2 cups of coffee a day, plus a water-based apple drink called Trina (Schweppes).

Can anyone suggest other liquids to drink that are water based?

[NicoleLeukaemiaCare Administrator]

Hi there,

From the NHS website, they suggest:

Water is a healthy and cheap choice for quenching your thirst at any time. It has no calories and contains no sugars that can damage teeth.

Plain tea, fruit tea and coffee (without added sugar) can also be healthy.

If you don't like the taste of plain water, try sparkling water or add a slice of lemon or lime. Or heat the water and infuse a tea bag, some coffee or a slice of lemon.

You could also add some no-added-sugar squash or fruit juice for flavour.

They also suggest:

- Milk

- Fruit juices or smoothies

Fruit and veg also have high water contents, which all contribute to your water intake per day (up to 20% of our standard fluid intake is through what we eat)

Hope this helps

[snoopy101 in reply to NicoleLeukaemiaCare]

Thank you for the reply.

[2003UK Champion]

Hi Snoopy, I am lucky because I like water but I have been advised to drink 2-3 pints of water a day to flush my kidneys etc, which helps me prevent kidney and urine infections which I am prone to especially since diagnosis. I also need to drink more in the hot water and during exercise. Is there a dietician at your surgery? Are there any water based drinks 'with a hint of' which might give you a bit of flavour whilst avoiding extra sugar or additives? Perhaps a health food store or large pharmacy might help. Depending on other ingredients what about herbal teas? I do like cold water with slices of lemon, mint or cucumber in it. Does a sparkle in water help? Perhaps looking at brand fruit drinks that you add cold water to might show you the ingredients because my grown up son says they are better for being sugar free etc these days. Sorry I cannot help more. Please let us know how you get on so we can all learn something.