Ever have those busy days when you feel off? Then you remember you’ve barely drank any water?
If even mild dehydration is to blame for your lack of clarity and fatigue, it’s time to drink water. Replenishing your body’s fluid levels is often the best medicine.
While mainstream media may exaggerate that 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated, there is some truth to this claim. Many Americans do not drink enough water.
The silver lining?
Dehydration is preventable and treatable.
This guide uncovers the benefits of drinking water, focusing on hydration and brain function. Recognize the signs of dehydration before low fluid intake disrupts your mental clarity.
The Link Between Low Fluid Intake and Mental Clarity
Did you know that your brain is approximately 75% water? To think clearly and ensure optimal cell function, your body and mind require proper hydration.
When you aren’t drinking enough fluid, you will notice a significant dip in mental clarity and cognitive function. The effects of poor hydration include:
Brain Fog and an Inability To Focus
When you don’t drink enough water, you start to feel sluggish, making it difficult to concentrate. Research shows a clear connection between attention span and mild dehydration.
Impaired Memory
Dehydration can lead to poor short-term and working memory. You may struggle to recall information and suffer from memory lapses. This effect can be highly problematic at work or in other situations that require memory recall.
Slower Processing Speed
Low water intake can lead to slower brain processing. You will likely notice reaction times when you try to solve complex problems.
Mood and Overall Well-Being Are Also Affected
It is not uncommon to experience heightened irritability when you are dehydrated.
There are several reasons for this. For example, dehydration disrupts brain function, neurotransmitter production, and electrolyte balance. As a result, focus drops and you can’t regulate emotions well.
Once you replenish your fluid levels, you may feel calmer. You’ll also be more alert and have more energy. This simple step can support healthier mental, emotional, and cognitive health while targeting physical well-being.
Dehydration can cause hormonal changes that directly affect bodily functions.
Poor hydration can also contribute to physical symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, poor circulation, and dry skin. If you have an underlying health condition, low hydration could make symptoms worse.
The bottom line is that the benefits of drinking water cannot be overstated. Proper hydration is foundational for all aspects of your health. From mental clarity to nutrient absorption, it is one of the key drivers of optimal cognitive, mental, and physical well-being.
Tips To Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
The first step is acknowledging that you may not be drinking enough water. If you are already aware of this and are making a conscious effort to increase your daily water intake, that is a significant step in the right direction.
Here are some tips to keep you on the right track:
Drink Regularly
One of the easiest ways to reduce the risk of dehydration? Get into the habit of sipping water throughout the day. Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink. At that point, you’re already showing signs of dehydration.
Once you create routines around water intake, they become second nature. For example, make a habit of drinking a glass or two of water before brewing your morning coffee.
Carry around a sports water bottle and, if needed, set reminders on your phone.
Jazz Up Your Water and Eat Hydrating Foods
If you’re bored with plain water, add natural flavor enhancers. Options include:
• Lemon
• Lime
• Cucumber
• Frozen berries
• Mint
Make it your own based on what you enjoy. There are plenty of fruit-infused recipes that you can tweak based on personal preference.
You can also increase your intake of water-rich foods, like:
• Watermelon
• Tomatoes
• Berries
• Zucchini
• Oranges
Look for Clues That You’re Not Getting Enough Water
It’s essential to listen to your body throughout the day. Take action if you are feeling tired, confused, or experiencing headaches. Those are often reminders that you need to drink water.
Alongside warning signs like a lack of focus, monitor your urine. Dark yellow urine is often a sure sign you need to drink more water. Clear urine usually means that you’re getting plenty of hydration.
Seeking Access to Clean, Filtered Water?
When taking action to improve hydration levels, why not address your water source?
Many Americans are taking action due to contaminants in the public water supply, and you can too. Brio offers a collection of robust, easy-to-install water filtration systems. Learn more about hydration and clean water solutions to see what’s available and what best suits your needs.
Browse all water filtration solutions and contact the Brio team with any questions today!
