Water is crucial for our health particularly during hot weather when dehydration can be significantly detrimental to the body.
However, it has now been found that even moderate dehydration or low water intake can have negative effects on cognitive function.
A study conducted at the University of Pennsylvania in the United States revealed that even slight dehydration during daily activities can impair your ability to concentrate.
Researchers discovered that when the body experiences a mild shortage of water, the ability to concentrate diminishes within minutes.
The study included 78 individuals aged between 47 and 70 years. All participants had access to clean drinking water and their health was monitored for three months.
Researchers chose middle-aged to elderly individuals because the risk of cognitive decline increases with age.
Previous research reports have indicated that dehydration affects cell health and organ function leading to chronic diseases and an increased risk of mortality.
In this new study, individuals were not deprived of water intentionally but were monitored for the effects of mild dehydration during daily activities.
Participants were advised to avoid foods high in fat, caffeine and strenuous exercise.
They underwent various cognitive tests, revealing that as the body experienced a slight shortage of water maintaining focus became increasingly challenging.
According to the researchers, the results indicate that habitual low water intake makes tasks requiring concentration more difficult.
They explained that individuals who regularly consume less water daily may find it challenging to perform tasks that require concentration although cognitive flexibility and memory are not significantly affected.
They emphasized the importance of staying adequately hydrated for individuals engaged in office work as dehydration could potentially impair their performance. Therefore, it is essential for them to consume the appropriate amount of water daily.
The findings of this study were published in the American Journal of Human Biology.
