By: Adriana Mendez, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader
Student life can be busy with classes, homework, club meetings, and social gatherings. Drinking enough water is a simple habit that is frequently forgotten in the hustle. However, consuming enough water each day is important for more than just satisfying your thirst; it also helps you stay focused, have more energy, and maintain optimal bodily functions.
What Happens When You Don’t Drink Enough Water?
- Fatigue and low energy: Dehydration can slow down your body’s blood circulation, making you feel sluggish and unmotivated.
- Difficulty concentrating: Water is essential for proper brain function. Memory loss and a shorter attention span can result from even mild dehydration.
- Increased stress and irritability: Dehydration raises the stress hormone cortisol, which makes it more difficult to remain composed under stressful situations.
Easy Access to Water on Campus
It doesn’t have to be difficult to stay hydrated. All three campuses here at UMass Lowell have handy water refill stations, so it’s simple to fill up your water bottle in between classes. These stations reduce plastic waste while encouraging students to drink more water.
Free water bottles are provided at a lot of school activities! Take advantage of the freebies and stay hydrated while attending a club event, career fair, or student gathering.
Simple Ways to Stay Hydrated
- Keep water on hand at all times: Staying hydrated is simple with a reusable water bottle.
- Set reminders: Utilize hydration apps or phone alarms to remind you to sip water throughout the day.
- Choose water over sugary drinks: Water is a better option than sugary drinks because energy drinks and coffee can dehydrate you.
- Eat foods with high water content: In addition to drinking water, you can stay hydrated by eating water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers.
- Drink a glass of water with a meal: It’s an easy way to build hydration into your routine.
Getting enough water is important for your body and mind to function at their peak, not merely to quench your thirst. Maintaining your energy and focus when working on projects, going to the gym, or hanging out with friends can depend heavily on being hydrated. So, utilize the water refill stations, pick up a complimentary bottle at an event, and develop the everyday practice of drinking water. You’ll thank yourself later!
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Hydration is really important for learning. How much do kids need to drink?