Hydration & Cognition: The Connection

Hydration Tips

Do not overdo it—small, steady amounts are more effective than drinking large quantities all at once. Drinking too much too quickly can make you feel uncomfortable, and in extreme cases can dilute your body’s electrolyte balance.

Be consistent. A few sips every hour or so is far more effective than trying to “catch up” by chugging a lot at once.

Listen to your body. As a general guide, aim to drink enough so that you rarely feel very thirsty and your urine stays a light yellow color. Let your thirst, energy level, and how you feel throughout the day help guide how much you need.

Many people also find it helpful to drink water about 30 minutes before eating. This habit supports both hydration and digestion. Also consider adding hydrating fruits and vegetables to your meals.

You can make this habit easier to stick to by:

  • Pairing the reminder with existing routines such as waking up, or mealtime.
  • Keep water and hydrating foods visible and within reach, and adopt a ‘minimum effort’ mindset—every sip or small bite counts.”
  • Vary hydration sources to keep it interesting, such as soups, fruits, vegetables, or water infused with vegetables (e.g., cucumber) or frozen fruit (e.g., berries).

Always speak to a licensed health care professional before making any changes to your hydration habits.

⚠️ Important Note

The light yellow urine color mentioned above is intended as a general reference only. Various foods and medications can naturally change the color of your urine. Color changes may also be indicative of underlying medical conditions or broader health concerns.

Consult a licensed health professional if you notice unusual or persistent changes, or if you have any questions or concerns regarding your health