Hydrate Your Way To Better Mental Health

The Link Between Hydration & Positive Mental Health

Our bodies are approximately 60% water, and maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, including mental well-being. Emerging research suggests a strong link between proper hydration and mental health, highlighting the importance of staying hydrated for optimal cognitive function and emotional balance. 

Several studies have explored the relationship between hydration and mental health. One study published in the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that mild dehydration (as little as 1-2% of body weight) can negatively impact cognitive performance, including attention, memory, and mood.  

Another study, published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, demonstrated that adequate hydration can help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Researchers believe that dehydration may affect the body's stress response, leading to increased levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. By staying hydrated, individuals may be able to better manage stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

There are a number of benefits to staying properly hydrated throughout the day which include;

Improved Cognitive Function: Dehydration can impair cognitive functions like memory, attention, and concentration. Staying hydrated helps your brain function optimally, leading to improved mental clarity and focus.  

Mood Regulation: Dehydration can contribute to irritability, mood swings, and even feelings of anxiety and depression. Adequate hydration helps stabilize your mood and promotes a more positive outlook.  

Stress Reduction: Dehydration can amplify the body's stress response. Staying hydrated helps your body better manage stress, reducing the impact of stressors on your mental health.  

Better Sleep: Dehydration can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Adequate hydration can improve sleep quality, which is crucial for overall mental well-being.  

Serotonin Production: Serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep, is produced more effectively when you are properly hydrated. This can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.  

Reduced Risk of Mental Health Conditions: Some studies suggest that adequate hydration may help reduce the risk of developing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. 

So what does proper hydration actually mean? Current research recommends consuming 35ml/kg of fluid per day and replacing at least 25% more fluid than sweat lost during exercise. This means it’s important to weigh yourself before and after training in these hot months so you can stay on top of it. 

If you want to supercharge your water, then add two scoops of Trainade Hydration into 500ml and make your water more effective and your body more hydrated.