Poor hydration linked to stress hormone surge

Low daily water intake can trigger higher cortisol levels, study suggests

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

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 (LJMU), 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 (EFSA) 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.

However, people may need to drink more when it is hot, if they are very active, if they are recovering from an illness, or if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.