Water link to stress hormone

PEOPLE who do not drink enough water have a stronger biological response to stress, according to a study.

- RHIANNON LAW

Researchers found those who habitually drink less release greater levels of the stress hormone cortisol, despite not feeling any thirstier than people who drink more.

Keeping a water bottle nearby during stressful periods could be beneficial for long-term health, researchers suggest.

The study, led by experts at Liverpool John Moores University, included 16 people who drank under 1.5 litres of water a day, along with 16 people who regularly met daily recommended guidelines for fluid intake.

Researchers used the European Food Safety Authority guidelines, which recommends men should drink 2.5 litres of water a day while women should drink two litres.

In the UK, the Eatwell Guide suggests adults should drink between six and eight cups of fluid a day, which is roughly 1.5 to two litres.