How Drinking Water Reduces Stress and Anxiety Naturally
How Drinking of Water Reduces Stress and Anxiety Naturally
Water is one of life’s most important elements for humans as our body contains approximately 60% – 70% water, and all organs, cells, and systems rely on it to work appropriately; however, numerous individuals do not consume enough water per day.
In talking about stress and anxiety, nearly everyone thinks first of counseling, mindfulness, or pharmaceuticals as a form of relief; however, many do not understand that dehydration can lead to increased stress, increased anxiety, increased fatigue, as well as cognitive issues.
This article will help you to understand how consuming water can naturally decrease stress and anxiety through the following: understanding how much water is enough to consume, symptoms of dehydration, and practical methods of being adequately hydrated, while positively impacting your mental health.
What Are Stress and Anxiety
Stress
The body’s response to any type of pressure or challenge is considered to be stress.
Stress can occur from:
- Job
- School
- Financial issues
- Interpersonal relationships
- Illness
Stress will trigger the release of cortisol and adrenaline from the body to prepare the individual for the “fight-or-flight” response.
Anxiety
Anxiety is the emotion generated when an individual is fearful, concerned, or apprehensive about what may occur in the future. Anxiety is a normal part of life; however, when it becomes chronic, it will begin to affect a person’s day-to-day life.
👉 The hydration level of an individual also impacts their ability to handle both stress and anxiety.
Dehydration and its effects on the brain
The human brain is comprised of 75% water. Even mild dehydration can interfere with your memory, ability to concentrate, mood and energy levels. Dehydration has been shown to result in an increase in the stress hormone, cortisol, resulting in feelings of fatigue, irritability and anxiousness.
How to Naturally Reduce Stress and Anxiety Through Drinking Water
1. Drinking Water Reduces Cortisol Levels
Your body perceives dehydration as a potential threat and it responds accordingly by releasing cortisol (the primary stress hormone).
Consuming sufficient amounts of water can help:
- Lower cortisol levels
- Calm the body's nervous system
- Decrease physical symptoms associated with stress
👉 Staying hydrated maintains the body's relaxed state.
2. Drinking Water Improve Brain Function/Mood
The cells of the brain require water for proper communication/functions. Dehydration slows down and disrupts brain signals.
Consuming an adequate amount of water can:
- Improve focus and clarity
- Eliminate brain fogging
- Enhance mood
- Increase level of mental performance
When the brain is functioning properly, stress and anxiety naturally diminish.
3. Drinking Water Supports the Nervous System
The nervous system is responsible for controlling the stress response within the body. Dehydration increases the sensitivity of the nervous system.
Consuming sufficient amounts of water can help:
- Calm nerves
- Reduce tension
- Improve relaxation
- Eliminate feelings of panic
Many symptoms associated with anxiety are attributable to dehydration.
4. Drinking Water Reduces Fatigue and Physical Symptoms of Stress
Fatigue creates an increase in stress as you become fatigued; therefore, the brain registers more anxiety.
Benefits of Hydration:
- Increased Energy Levels
- Improved Blood Circulation
- Enhanced Oxygen
5. Water Increases the Quality of Sleep
6. Water assists in the body's detoxification
7. Water Helps to Regulate Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
8. Water Decreases Headaches and Muscle Tension
9. Water Aids Digestion and Gut Health
10. Water serves to Balance Hormones
Scientific Evidence of Water's Role in Mental Health
- Mild dehydration is correlated with increased tension, anger, and fatigue
- Drinking water can enhance mood and reduce anxiety
- Hydrating can improve cognitive function and memory
Signs You May Be Dehydrated
- Persistent thirst
- Dry mouth
- Dark yellow urine
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Difficulty focusing
- Anxiety or irritability
How Much Water to Drink Daily
- A 60 kilogram person = 1.8 Liters/day
- A 70-kilogram person = 2.1 Liters/day
- General Recommendations
- Men: 2.5 to 3.5 Liters per day
- Women: 2 to 3 Liters per day
Best Times to Drink Water to Reduce Stress
- Upon Waking - Drink 1 to 2 glasses of water to jumpstart your brain and body.
- Before Meals - Drinking water before meals helps improve digestion and prevents overeating.
- During Stressful Situations - Taking small sips of water during stressful situations can help calm your nerves.
- Before Bed - Drinking a small amount before bed can keep you from waking up thirsty during the night, but too much could cause you to wake up.
Making Drinking Water a Habit
- Keeping a water bottle with you can help ensure that you are consuming enough water on a daily basis.
- Use your phone alarms or calendars to remind yourself when to drink water throughout the day.
- The consumption of coffee can lead to dehydration.
- Use cell phone applications to monitor or keep a record of the amounts of water you drink using markers on your water bottles.
Water versus Other Beverages: In Relation to Stress
- Raise Your Cortisol Level
- Heighten Anxiety Levels
- Lead to Low Energy Levels
- Raise Your Level of Stress
- Natural Beverage, Zero Calories
- Calms Your Body and Mind
Help Reduce Anxiety Symptoms
- Enhance Your Brain Function
- Improve Your Therapy & Lifestyle Changes
Benefits of Drinking More Water
- Better Moods
- Fewer Headaches
- Improved Concentration
- Better Sleep
- Less Severe Anxiety Symptoms
- More Energy
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