Remember, a glass of water you need to manage stress
A new study suggests that people who do not drink enough water every day feel really more stressed, not only emotionally, but biologically.
We all heard that drinking enough water is important for health. But here is something that you do not know: Being hydrated can also help you handle stress better.
A new study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that people who do not drink enough water every day feel really more stressed, not only emotionally, but biologically.
Stress-hydration link
Researchers at the University of Liverpool John Murce University divided them into two groups and studied healthy young adults. One group usually drank less than 1.5 liters of water a day, while the other was more than the recommended volume (about 2 liters for women and 2.5 liters for men).
After a week, after sticking to their normal drinking habits, both groups were placed through a stressful test: some difficult mental mathematics after public speaking.
Interestingly, everyone was nervous, and their heart rate was shot in this way.
But when the researchers examined the level of stress hormone, a major difference appeared. Cortisol in the low water group was a very strong bounce of the main stress hormone of the body.
Thirst is not the only sign for drinking water
Cortisol is not always bad – it is part of the body’s natural “fight or flight” response. But when cortisol lasts longer, it can increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, kidney issues and diabetes.
What is more, dehydrated participants did not even feel thirsty than others.
However, their urinary tests showed that their bodies were drying up. This shows that we cannot always rely on thirst as a sign of drinking water.
What is happening inside the body?
Researchers say that when the body feels dehydration, it releases a hormone called vasopressin.
This hormone asks the kidneys to save water – but it also interacts with the brain’s stress system, causing cortisol level to shoot during difficult moments.
This means that the body is facing a double burden: trying to conserve water is also reacting more strongly to stress.
Over time, it can create everyday pressure – work deadlines, family responsibilities, financial concerns – difficult on our health.
A simple tool for stress management
Writers say that lifestyle factors such as sleep, exercise, good nutrition and social support help us to deal with stress.
Now, Hydration joined that list. This can make sure something as simple as you receive enough water every day can help your body remain calm under pressure.
So the next time you are feeling on the shore, it may be worth reaching a glass of water.
This will not solve all your problems, but it can give your body a chance to handle stress better.