BRAIN HEALTH AND WATER HYDRATION
Proper hydration is critical for brain health because the brain is ~75% water, and dehydration impairs cognitive functions like focus, memory, and decision-making, causing sluggishness and fogginess. Water supports nutrient/oxygen delivery, waste removal, neurotransmitter production, and mood regulation, while inadequate intake hinders these processes, affecting energy, clarity, and even brain volume, underscoring the need for consistent fluid intake.
Optimal Function: Water helps brain cells maintain balance for efficient thinking, learning, and memory.
Nutrient & Oxygen Delivery: It increases blood flow, bringing essential oxygen and nutrients to brain neurons.
Waste Removal: Water flushes out metabolic waste and toxins, protecting the brain.
Neurotransmitter Production: It’s vital for creating hormones and neurotransmitters (like dopamine/serotonin) that regulate mood and motivation.
Protective Barrier: It cushions the brain and supports the blood-brain barrier, keeping harmful substances out.
Effects of Dehydration on the Brain
Cognitive Impairment: Difficulty concentrating, poor memory, slowed reaction times, and impaired judgment.
Mood & Energy: Can lead to irritability, low motivation, grogginess, fatigue, and emotional instability.
Physical Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, and impaired balance.
Cellular Impact: Can shrink brain cells and reduce processing speed.
Research On Connections
“Can dehydration impair cognitive function?”: Source: Cognitive Vitality
BIOLOGICAL AGING AND WATER HYDRATION
Water carries nutrients and oxygen to your cells, flushes bacteria from your bladder, normalizes blood pressure and aids in food digestion. In the US, 75% of people suffer from chronic dehydration, drinking only 2.5 cups of water a day. Small amounts of dehydration or not drinking enough water daily can contribute to joint pain since synovial fluid and cartilage tissue cells need water to help reduce friction and maintain motion between the joints. According to the Cleveland Clinic, dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization among those 65 and over.
Research On Connections
“Small amounts of dehydration or not drinking enough water daily can contribute to joint pain” Source: Creaky Joints
“One of the conclusions was that poor hydration may accelerate biological aging and increase the risk of chronic disease and death” Source: National Institutes Of Health
“According to the Cleveland Clinic, dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization among those 65 and over” Source: Cleveland Clinic
RECOMMENDED HEALTHY AGING PROTOCOL
“I Drink 6+ Glasses Of Water”: Answer = 5-7 Days A Week