Every part of your body needs water to function. We are made up of around 60% water after all. So, staying hydrated is important for the health of your brain and your cognitive abilities as well as the rest of your body. Read on for more info on how hydration (and dehydration!) can affect your brain health.
Why does your brain need water?
Your brain is lubricated and essentially cushioned by cerebrospinal fluid, which helps to protect your brain from injury. This fluid also helps to maintain the correct pressure inside your skull and carries waste and toxins away from the brain and spinal cord. Proper hydration is essential for your body to produce enough of this cerebrospinal fluid.
Water also contributes to your blood levels (which is why you’re encouraged to drink lots of fluids after donating blood). Blood delivers oxygen and essential nutrients to your brain, so hydration is essential for this. Additionally, water helps with the creation of neurons and with balancing hormones.
Cognitive benefits of hydration
The boost that hydration gives to your brain health and function has a number of benefits. It helps to maintain levels of focus and concentration, and also boosts energy levels. So, if you’re feeling sluggish and unfocused at work or school and you feel like it’s impacting your performance, keep a bottle of water with you and take regular sips to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Since hydration is important for hormone balance and the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, staying hydrated can also help to boost or maintain your mood. And dehydration can cause an increase in cortisol, the stress hormone, in turn having a negative impact on your mood if you don’t stay hydrated.
Hydration is also linked with improved performance when it comes to your cognitive abilities. Your memory is improved, you have better problem-solving ability and decision-making skills, and you can better understand new concepts and ideas when learning. So, if you’re studying for a test or are taking a test, make sure you’re well-hydrated.
If you’re even a little dehydrated, you could notice a decline in your cognitive function in terms of memory, concentration, energy levels, mood, and more.
Make hydration easier and tastier with a spring water delivery service from Mountain Park Spring Water. Delivering bottled water to your door and properly disposing of and recycling your used bottles. Get in touch for more information about our services across Virginia and North Carolina, and about our water coolers, dispensers, and accessories.