Jakarta, ThedailyID — Feeling tired, unfocused, or suddenly in a bad mood? Before blaming work or lack of sleep, consider whether you have been drinking enough water.
Research published in The Journal of Nutrition examined healthy women with an average age of around 23 under three conditions: normal hydration, dehydration caused by exercise, and dehydration caused by exercise combined with medication that increased fluid loss.
During the study, participants lost around 1.36% of their body weight through fluid loss. This mild dehydration was associated with lower energy and motivation, increased fatigue, mood changes, headaches, and reduced concentration.
Participants also reported that their tasks felt more difficult to complete. Physical signs included increased thirst and darker, more concentrated urine.
Research discussed by Cambridge University Press also suggests that dehydration can negatively affect mood, with clearer effects observed among women. Mild dehydration may also affect certain aspects of memory and executive function, although some abilities improved after participants replenished their fluids.
However, dehydration is not the only factor that influences mood. Sleep quality, stress, hormones, psychological conditions, diet, and daily activities can also affect how someone feels.
Water plays an important role in maintaining blood volume, regulating body temperature, and supporting the nervous system. When fluid levels drop, the body begins sending signals, including thirst, to encourage fluid intake.
If you suddenly feel tired, struggle to concentrate, or experience an unexplained change in mood, checking your water intake may be a useful first step. You do not have to wait until you feel extremely thirsty to drink.
