Have you felt less sharp than usual lately? You might blame it on getting older or just a hectic schedule, but what if your hydration status was playing a role? A recent study shows that dehydration affects our thinking.
A recent pilot study published in the European Journal of Nutrition looked specifically into that. Experts studied how our hydration levels could be impacting our cognitive abilities, especially as we age. Researchers explored multiple hydration markers in adults aged 61–77, including urine tests, blood analysis, and body water content, and then assessed their cognitive functions, such as memory, learning, and language skills.
Results
The study found that even mild changes in hydration status could affect cognitive performance. However, people with higher overall body water didn’t necessarily perform better on memory tests. This indicates the relationship between hydration and cognition is complex. Nonetheless, better hydration appeared beneficial to certain cognitive areas, particularly language skills.
So, what does this mean for you? As we age, our body’s signals for thirst can become less noticeable. This puts senior adults at risk for mild dehydration. This slow dehydration can lead to changes in focus, attention, and memory, even when we’re otherwise healthy.
Experts compared hydration to oil in your car. When there is not enough oil, the engine (your brain) does not run as smoothly. Staying well-hydrated might help keep your mind sharp and focused throughout your day.
Ways To Stay Smart
There are several habits to start to prevent dehydration. First, do not wait until you are thirsty. It is best to sip fluids regularly throughout the day, aiming for about 8–10 cups total from all sources (water, fruits, vegetables, etc.). With that, it is advisable to include hydrating foods in your day—snack on water-rich fruits and veggies like melons, berries, cucumbers, and leafy greens. Next, pay attention to the color of your urine. Pale, straw-colored urine typically signals good hydration, while dark urine suggests you need more fluids. If necessary, set reminders to drink. If you struggle remembering to hydrate, set hourly reminders on your phone or use visual cues like a water bottle nearby.
Dehydration is an issue that can be conquered with a few simple adjustments.
