Is there a connection between hydration and stress levels?

Foodwatch has accused Nestle Waters and Sources Alma of fraudulently treating water they say is ‘mineral water’ – Copyright AFP TANG CHHIN Sothy

Some research suggests a correlation between what we drink and how we feel, with even mild dehydration – as little as 2 percent fluid loss – affecting mood, memory, concentration, and reaction time. This comes at a time when general stress levels in the population appears to be increasing.

Lena Jüngst, co-founder of air up, has explained to Digital Journal why it is important to stay hydrated and provides some practical advice.  

Jüngst explains that drinking enough water each day is crucial for many reasons – supporting healthy digestion, improving brain function, preventing headaches and increasing energy – with a recent study also revealing that drinking the lowest levels of water doubled the risk of depression and anxiety.

In terms of the UK, as an example:

• 45% (23,152,000) of people drink around one glass of water a day
• 30% (15,701,000) of people find water boring so they don’t often drink it
• 29% (14,814,000) of people have tried, without success, to drink more water

To ensure more people look after their health and water consumption Jüngst – unveils top tips on how to stay hydrated.

Drink before you’re thirsty

According to Jüngst: “To stay hydrated it’s important to make sure your water levels are constantly being topped up throughout the day. While outdoors, these levels are depleted at a much faster rate and we might not even realise we’re thirsty until we’re at the point of dehydration, so it’s important to make sure to drink at regular intervals throughout the day.” 

Be aware of how much water you’re consuming

On the subject of measurements, Jüngst advises: “Although taking sips of water here and there is great, it’s better to be aware of exactly how much we’re consuming to be sure we’re actually getting as much water as we need. It’s all too easy to feel as though we’re drinking litres of water whilst takings small sips but in reality, sometimes this only equates to a glass or so a day. Carrying a water bottle and setting a goal of how many of these you are drinking throughout the day ensures that this does not happen.”

Keep water with you at all times

Another tip from Jüngst is: “It’s important to remember to always bring a water bottle out with you. Carrying a bottle of water (e.g. our air up bottle) provides us with instant hydration as and when we need it.”