Why Staying Hydrated Matters for Your Brain

The following article was inspired by this article by Ana Adan.

Even mild dehydration—just a 2% drop—can have a noticeable impact on your brain’s performance. It disrupts your body’s ability to maintain balance in its internal systems, which can lead to cognitive difficulties.

This doesn’t just affect vulnerable groups like children and older adults. Even healthy young adults can experience a drop in mental sharpness when they’re not properly hydrated.

Some of the first areas to be affected by dehydration include:
– Attention span
– Coordination and reaction time (psychomotor skills)
– Short-term memory
– Your sense of how you’re feeling mentally and physically (subjective state)

On the other hand, functions like long-term memory, working memory, and decision-making (executive function) tend to hold up better—especially if the dehydration is caused by moderate physical activity rather than illness or heat.

Simple Tips to Stay Well Hydrated

Want to keep your brain sharp and your body functioning at its best? Here are some easy ways to stay hydrated throughout the day:

• Start your day with water
Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning to rehydrate your body after a night’s rest.
• Keep water within reach
Carry a refillable water bottle with you so it’s easy to sip regularly, whether you’re working, driving, or running errands.
• Add natural flavor
If plain water feels boring, jazz it up with fresh lemon, lime, cucumber, or mint to make it more appealing.
• Eat water-rich foods
Fruits and vegetables like watermelon, oranges, cucumbers, and strawberries are high in water and count toward your daily hydration.
• Drink before you feel thirsty
Thirst is your body’s way of saying you’re already behind. Make a habit of drinking water throughout the day to stay ahead.

We’d love to hear from you! Please share your favorite ways to stay well hydrated in the comments below.