Your survivor runs on two hidden meters — energy (from food) and hydration (from water) — shown as icons in the bottom-right when they change. Keep both high and your body regenerates blood and then health. Let either bottom out and you start losing health and eventually black out and die.
The icons that matter
- Thirsty / Hydrated — a drop icon. Orange or flashing means drink now.
- Hungry / Energized — a food icon. Same idea for food.
- Stuffed — you ate or drank too fast and can take no more for a moment. Wait, do not force it.
- Healthy — a white flashing heart means energy and hydration are both high enough that health is regenerating. This is the state you want.
- Sick — a bubble/skull icon means a disease is active; see illnesses & diseases.
Getting to "Healthy"
Blood and health only regenerate when you are well fed and well hydrated at the same time. Eat and drink past the point of "full" over time until the heart icon appears. A good habit: whenever you pass a well, drink to Stuffed and fill a container.
Sprinting, fighting the cold and bleeding all burn through food and water faster, so top up before a long run, not during it.
