Adults who drink half a litre of water a day or less, are increasing their chances of having high blood sugar levels, research has revealed.
The study, led by researchers at the French National Research Institute INSERM, monitored 3,615 French adults between the ages of 30 and 65, with normal bloody sugar levels, over a period of nine years.
It was found that those who drank at least 12 ounces of water per day, were 28% less likely to have high bloody sugar levels than those who drank less.
Of the volunteers, 565 developed high blood sugar levels and 202 developed type 2 diabetes.
The reasons behind these findings are believed to be down to the vasopressin hormone, which regulates the body's water retention.
When the body is dehydrated, the vasopressin receptors in the liver (which are responsible for producing glucose) go up and it's suggested that these make blood sugar levels elevate.
Another conclusion was that those who drank little water, had sugary drinks instead, which could consequently lead to high blood sugar levels and diabetes.
However, although the findings proved positive, further studies need to be done to confirm the link between blood sugar levels and diabetes alone.
If you can't stomach the idea of drinking the recommended eight to ten glasses a day, check out these tastier ways to boost your water intake.