We are aware of that water has a number of beneficial qualities for the body.

All our organs, including the brain, need water to function properly. More specifically, 85% of the human brain consists of water.

In order to meet our daily needs, we should consume at least eight glasses of water.

People that work, often say that due to the work and the stress, they “forget” or “do not have time to drink water”. As a result, this leads to more stress in their body, but also decreases their performance.

More specifically: when we stress – it causes dehydration, because the pulse is increasing, we breathe more heavily and sweat more, and therefore, lose more of our body fluid. The dehydration causes headache, nausea, fatigue, tachycardia, reduction of the attention and concentration level and lack of conscience.

Our performance drops when the intake of fluid is very low. Studies have shown that a fluid loss equal to 2% of our body weight is enough to start reducing our efficiency and endurance.

Finally there is a vicious circle where stress causes dehydration and the dehydration causes stress.

When we do not consume enough water, this leads to dehydration, which causes stress in the body and the brain. According to studies, when the brain is dehydrated, more cortisol is released, which is one of the stress hormones. Only when we are properly hydrated, the cortisol levels remain low.

The best way to tackle stress at work is to try to consume eight glasses of water while in the office.

So, the next time that you feel stressed, do something simple…

Go to the water cooler and drink a glass of water!

IN ORDER TO FEEL THE WELL-BEING AND TO BE MORE EFFECTIVE AT THE OFFICE:

• Follow a balanced diet and drink a glass of water before each dinner or snack.
• Try to drink enough water when you are at work.
• Exercise regularly and drink more water during the exercise.
• Use relaxation and breathing techniques.

 

Rania- Argyri Tzanakaki B.S., M.ed. Dietician- Nutritionist

Sport Psychology Consultant - Psychological Diet Support