Mild dehydration causes emotional problems

Posted on Mon, 20 Feb 12

Bad mood? Struggling at work? Poor concentration? Headaches? A new study published in the Nutrition Journal suggests it may be that you are simply not drinking enough water. 

To see if mild dehydration, such as after moderate exercise or not drinking enough water, has any effect on cognitive function a group of 25 healthy young women were studied for changes in mood and cognition after experimental dehydration.

While most aspects of cognitive performance were not affected it was discovered that mild dehydration could cause fatigue, degraded mood, increased perception of task difficulty, lower concentration, and headache symptoms.

“Increased emphasis on optimal hydration is warranted, especially during and after moderate exercise” concluded the study investigators.

By the time you are thirsty you are already dehydrated so the symptoms of fatigue, low mood, poor concentration and headaches should serve as a warning sign that you might need more water. Aim for about 6-8 glasses a day.

Reference:

Armstrong LE, Ganio MS, Casa DJ, Lee EC, McDermott BP, Klau JF, Jimenez L, Le  Bellego L, Chevillotte E, Lieberman HR. Mild dehydration affects mood in healthy  young women. J Nutr. 2012 Feb;142(2):382-8.