We've all been hunting for the perfect drink to boost our brain power, especially when that afternoon slump hits. You've probably tried coffee, energy drinks, or maybe even brain-enhancing smoothies to improve your brain power. But scientists have discovered that the most effective brain-boosting beverage might be the simplest one: water. But there's more to it than you think!
IMPROVE YOUR BRAIN POWER:
The Brain-Boosting Power of Water: Even mild dehydration can impair our attention, long-term and short-term memory, and our ability to do complex tasks. Researchers have found that students drinking water before exams actually performed better1!
Think Faster!: Hydration affects reaction time. When adequately hydrated, the brain can quickly receive and process information.
Mood and Focus: Feeling cranky? Can't concentrate? Before you blame it on lack of sleep or stress, consider your water intake. Dehydration can negatively impact mood and concentration.
The Twist: While water has proven benefits, overhydration, also known as water intoxication or hyponatremia, is real and dangerous. Drinking excessive amounts in short periods can lead to a potentially life-threatening imbalance in brain function4.
For example, a 35-year-old woman from Indiana on vacation recently drank too much water and died from water toxicity. She had been boating on the July 4th weekend and felt 'severely dehydrated,' so, per her family's Facebook post, she drank four bottles of water (possibly 16 oz each for 64 oz total) in less than 3o minutes, causing her brain to swell so much that it cut off the blood supply to her brain.
Conclusion: Water isn't just for quenching thirst; it's a genuine brain booster. But as with everything, balance is key. Ensure you're hydrating adequately, but remember there can be too much of a good thing.
REFERENCES
Edmonds, C. J., & Jeffes, B. (2009). Does having a drink help you think? 6–7-Year-old children show improvements in cognitive performance from baseline to test after having a drink of water. ↩
Cian, C., Barraud, P. A., Melin, B., & Raphel, C. (2001). Effects of fluid ingestion on cognitive function after heat stress or exercise-induced dehydration. ↩
Rogers, P. J., Kainth, A., & Smit, H. J. (2001). A drink of water can improve or impair mental performance depending on small differences in thirst. ↩
Rosner, M. H., & Ronco, C. (2010). Hyponatremia in acute heart failure. ↩