A reasonably large body of evidence from the literature shows a correlation between the hydration level of the subject and physical performance. As dehydration reaches about 5 %, performance drops off significantly. Athletes have known this for some time, and maintaining proper hydration is a significant priority of the serious and determined athlete. As with physical performance, mental performance also shows a correlation with hydration levels. In this regard, even small amounts of dehydration can cause significant cognitive impairments. For example, one study observed that a dehydration level of 2 % causes significant impairment in tasks that require attention, psychomotor, subjective state assessment and immediate memory skills. However, long-term memory and executive mental functions are not so detrimentally affected, as might be expected. Maintaining correct hydration levels should therefore be a priority to those that wish to optimise mental function and maintain optimal health.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
