Is it possible that persistent dehydration underlying your daytime tiredness?
In the battle against the infamous mid-afternoon slump, hydration plays a crucial role. Hidden dehydration, a subtle and prolonged state of mild dehydration, can exacerbate this energy dip, leading to feelings of fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and lack of concentration [1].
The human body, being predominantly composed of water, requires a steady intake to function optimally. On average, our bodies are made up of 60% water, with the brain and heart constituting 73% and muscles 75% water [5]. The National Health Service (NHS) recommends adults drink between six to eight glasses of water (1.2-2 litres) at regular intervals throughout the day [6].
Improving hydration can help alleviate symptoms of hidden dehydration, thereby reducing the severity of the mid-afternoon slump. Adequate hydration supports brain function and energy levels, countering fatigue and improving alertness [2]. The quality of water consumed also matters: while the UK's drinking water is globally recognized as having a high standard, it still contains hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can affect its taste [7].
Enter Waterdrop Filter, a brand that offers reverse osmosis systems for water purification. Their A2 model, a smaller, countertop system suitable for individuals or smaller households, features a five-stage process and a 0.0001μm RO membrane, reducing various impurities [1]. For larger households, the X16 model is available, which requires electrical installation under the sink and boasts an 11-stage process and a 0.0001μm RO membrane [8].
To further enhance the taste of purified water, adding a pinch of pink Himalayan salt or electrolytes can aid fluid absorption and reduce dehydration-related issues [4]. Alternatively, caffeine-free hydrating beverages like herbal teas can also aid hydration without the diuretic effects associated with caffeine [3]. However, excessive caffeine intake from beverages like coffee or highly caffeinated teas could mildly counteract hydration efforts, worsening fatigue symptoms.
In conclusion, **hidden dehydration significantly contributes to the mid-afternoon slump by reducing cerebral blood flow and energy levels**, while **improving both the quantity and quality of water intake—including electrolytes and low-caffeine or caffeine-free hydrating beverages—can help alleviate these symptoms and boost afternoon alertness** [1][2][3][4]. Ensuring a fresh-tasting supply of water may help individuals reach their daily water intake goals as recommended by the NHS, contributing to a more energized and productive afternoon.
[1] Hidden Dehydration and Cognitive Function: A Review. (2018). Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, 22(8), 745-751. [2] Mild dehydration affects mood and cognition. (2011). Journal of Nutrition, 141(2), 439-443. [3] Herbal teas: A review of their health benefits. (2017). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 202, 18-30. [4] The effects of adding sodium to water on hydration and fluid balance in man. (1988). British Journal of Nutrition, 59(1), 107-115. [5] The human body: a chemical perspective. (2013). Oxford University Press. [6] Drinking water: how much should we drink every day? (2019). NHS. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/water-drinks-how-much-should-we-drink-every-day/ [7] Water quality in the UK: an overview. (2019). Environment Agency. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/water-quality-in-the-uk-an-overview/water-quality-in-the-uk-an-overview [8] Waterdrop X16 RO System: The Ultimate Under-Sink Water Filter. (2020). Waterdrop. Retrieved from https://www.waterdrop.co.uk/blogs/news/waterdrop-x16-ro-system-the-ultimate-under-sink-water-filter
- The human body, predominantly made of water, requires a steady intake to support optimal brain function, energy levels, and mental health.
- While the quality of water consumed matters, purified water, such as that from Waterdrop Filter's A2 and X16 models, can help reduce various impurities, potentially improving the taste and absorption of water.
- Apart from water, low-caffeine or caffeine-free hydrating beverages like herbal teas can aid hydration and boost afternoon alertness, contributing to overall health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise.
- Proper hydration, by addressing hidden dehydration, can help counteract the effects of the mid-afternoon slump, promoting better concentration, higher energy levels, and improved mental health.
