Drinking enough water is key to staying healthy and managing stress. A recent study from LJMU found that people who drink less than the recommended daily amount—1.5 liters, or about seven cups—experience a higher response of cortisol, the main stress hormone. This can lead to increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
Professor Neil Walsh, a physiologist at LJMU, highlights the connection: “Exaggerated cortisol reactivity to stress is associated with various health issues.” He suggests that keeping a water bottle nearby during stressful times can benefit long-term health.
In the study, researchers divided healthy young adults into two groups: those who drank less than 1.5 liters daily, and those who met the recommended intake—2 liters for women and 2.5 for men. Both groups dealt with similar stress levels during tests, yet only the low-fluid group showed significant increases in saliva cortisol.
Dr. Daniel Kashi, from the study team, noted that while both groups felt anxious, poor hydration was evident in the low-fluid group through darker, more concentrated urine. This indicates that even if someone doesn’t feel thirsty, dehydration can still affect their stress response.
When the body is dehydrated, it releases a hormone called vasopressin, which helps conserve water. However, this extra effort can stress the kidneys and increase cortisol levels. The researchers emphasize the importance of observing hydration levels; light yellow urine usually signals good hydration.
To sum up, good hydration might help the body handle stress better. While more long-term studies are needed, adhering to water intake guidelines—around 2 liters for women and 2.5 for men—could have lasting health benefits.
If you’re juggling a busy schedule, keeping water close at hand is more than just a good habit. It’s a simple way to support both your physical well-being and your mental health.
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Mental Health Research; Diabetes; Sleep Disorder Research; Diet and Weight Loss; Fitness; Heart Disease; Workplace Health; Pregnancy and Childbirth
