Lack Of Drinking Water Can Increase Stress Risks, Here's An Explanation

Illustration of drinking water. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - You may often hear suggestions for drinking water at least eight glasses a day. But apparently, the benefits are not just to keep the body fresh.

Drinking enough water also has a major impact on mental health and stress levels. A recent study shows dehydration can make it easier for the body to feel stressed without you realizing it.

Research conducted by Liverpool John Moores University and published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found people who drank less than one and a half liters of water per day experienced an increase in cortisol hormone levels by up to 50% compared to those who drank enough water.

The cortisol itself is known as the main stress hormone that affects many body functions, including mood, metabolism, and blood pressure.

"Cortisol is the main hormone that causes stress in the body. Increasing cortisol's reactivity to stress can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and depression," explained Professor Neil Walsh, the study's lead researcher, quoted from the Real Simple page.

"If you know you're going to face a tense situation, such as an important deadline or presentation, getting used to drinking enough water can help maintain the balance of the body and mind," he added.

In this study, participants were divided into two groups, namely one with sufficient liquid intake, and another low intake. After a week with their respective drinking habits, the participants underwent a Trier Social Stress Test, namely a test that simulates stress in the real world such as work interviews or fast count assignments.

The results are quite striking. Groups that lack water show a significant increase in cortisol levels, even though they don't feel thirsty. This means that the body experiences stress due to dehydration without us realizing it.

Scientifically, when the body lacks fluids, the brain will release vasopression. These hormones help regulate fluid balance and also affect the part of the brain that controls stress.

If the body continues to lack water, this system becomes more active and triggers an increase in cortisol. Until finally, it makes it easier for you to feel anxious, anxious, or depressed.

If you know it will be a busy and stressful day, make sure you stay hydrated. Carrying a water bottle can be a simple habit that has a big impact on long-term health," said Dr. Daniel Kashi, a member of the research team.

Often we don't realize that the body has started to lack fluids. Some general signs that need to be considered include:

- The mouth feels dry or the throat is hungry quickly.

- Urine dark yellow or cloudy.

- Easy to get tired and difficult to focus.

- Light headache.

- Mood is easy to change or feel anxious for no apparent reason.

The easiest way to check if you drink enough is to see the color of urine. The light yellow color indicates the body is well hydrated, while the old yellow color can be a sign you need more water.

Simple Ways To Stay Hydrated

Maintaining the adequacy of fluids is actually easy to do, as long as it becomes a habit. Here are some tips you can try.

- Always carry a water bottle wherever you go.

- Drink a glass of water after waking up and before bed.

- Add fresh fruit pieces such as lemon or cucumber to make it taste fresher.

- Use a drinking water reminder application on your phone.

- Drinking water is not only a matter of physical health, but also important for emotional and mental balance.

So from now on, don't underestimate simple habits such as drinking water.

"Keeping the body hydrated can be one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from stress and maintain long-term health." said Professor Walsh.