Did you know that dehydration can cause memory problems?
Having grown up in sunny South Florida, I have experienced countless days of scorching heat. Most afternoons, I’d be exhausted and find it hard to concentrate.
The heat exposure and physical activity increased the amount of water my body needed, and I wasn’t aware of how much water was necessary to stay hydrated. I assumed incorrectly that about two glasses a day was enough. Even though I’m in my 20’s, I substantially underestimated what my body needed, and it was making me run down and fatigued.
As we get older, it’s common to believe we are hydrated enough when we really aren’t. And with advancing age, our thirst mechanisms weaken, and sometimes our bladders as well. We consume fewer fluids, and for all these reasons, we don’t have what we need to keep our bodies functioning optimally.
An adult female needs on average about 2.2. liters per day (about 8 ½ glasses) while an adult male needs about 3 liters (a little over 12 glasses). We do get some water from the food we eat, notably fruits and vegetables.
A study from the Department of Psychology, Ohio University, found that total body water by weight was connected to memory skills along with diastolic blood pressure, which in turn was related to memory.
Staying hydrated helps the heart pump blood more easily, allowing us to feel less faint and more focused. Studies also suggest that dehydration can affect brain volume.
What is good for your body is good for your brain. Since 70% of our bodies are water, good hydration will allow you to feel more clear-headed and energized.
