Hydration may be the reason you lack the energy and outlook you’re after. There is plenty of data to support hydration’s impact on mood, energy, and brain function.
So, why don’t you go fill up a glass of water?
Let’s put things in perspective: your body is made up of roughly 60 percent water. When you consider it makes up more than half of your weight, it can illuminate just how important and far-reaching its benefits can be.
There is research showing that even mild dehydration, as low as 1-3 percent of body weight, can impair mood and concentration while increasing the likelihood of headaches.
Hydration also helps keep energy up. If you’re running a little ragged, it makes more sense to think about how much water you’ve consumed during the day instead of reaching for a coffee, cola, or sugary snack.
Those options may offer some quick relief, but more than likely, you’ll find yourself feeling worse than you did before.
The best way to stay hydrated is to sip water throughout the day. Increase frequency and intake in warm weather or during periods of physical exertion. But, generally speaking, just try to keep a bottle within arm’s reach.
You may have heard of the eight glasses per day guideline. That is not set in stone, but it does offer a helpful reference point.
Scheduling intake can also help you stay on top of hydration. Drinking a bottle immediately upon waking can set you on the right path, and having one with each meal can help you automate water intake. Sipping between meals and snacks can help ensure you’re getting a steady supply each day.
If your energy is low and your mood is off, water may be the fastest and most effective fix. Do your best to stay hydrated and reap the rewards.