If you are feeling perpetually worn out, irritable, or just not yourself lately, it is easy to attribute it to a busy lifestyle or the natural ageing process. However, a health expert says that the culprit could also be simple.
Before you overthink the reasons why you are always tired, review your daily habits and first ask yourself, ‘Am hydrating myself enough?’
According to health expert Zac Turner, a little-known factor that could be sapping your energy is chronic dehydration.
It is a common misconception that only athletes or those enduring extreme heat are at risk of dehydration. However, the reality is that many of us are walking around with less-than-optimal hydration levels, and it is affecting more than just our physical health.
The mood-hydration connection
Dr Zac reveals that our mood and cognitive function are also at stake when we neglect our water intake. He says that if you feel grumpy without reason, ‘it is your body telling you it is not getting the water it needs.’
Research has shown that even mild dehydration can lead to increased anxiety, irritability, and stress. Dr Turner likens a dehydrated brain to a phone on low battery—it still functions, but not as efficiently.
In contrast, keeping hydrated helps maintain calmness and focus, crucial for enjoying life’s golden years.
He also compares the body to a car, saying, ‘If you do not put enough petrol in it, it is going to sputter and run out of steam. If you think of water a little bit like the oil for your car, then not having enough can [make it] overheat and damage lots of the other processes as well.’
He adds that a loss of just one to two per cent of body weight in water can leave someone feeling irritable, tired, and sluggish. For a 70kg person, for example, this equates to 700-1,400 ml or a couple of cups of water.
‘If you are really dehydrated, though, more like five per cent or more, you might start feeling dizzy or even confused.’

Rehydrating the right way
The age-old advice of eight glasses a day is a good starting point, but Dr Turner emphasises that individual needs vary. Factors such as gender, activity level, and climate are considered in determining our hydration requirements.
For males, the recommended amount of water intake per day is about 3.7 litres or about 15 cups of water, while females should aim for around 2.7 litres.
Dr Turner also notes that hydration is not limited to water and can also come from other fluids such as herbal teas, juices, fruits, and vegetables.
If you are looking to combat dehydration, he advises against quick fixes. Instead, he recommends a gradual approach, akin to watering a plant.
For mild dehydration, he says consistent sipping throughout the day is key. In more severe cases, such as after intense exercise or illness, drinks with electrolytes can help restore essential minerals.
The takeaway
Our bodies are complex systems that require regular maintenance, and water is a fundamental part of that.
Carrying a drink bottle and taking small sips throughout the day can make a significant difference in how you feel. Remember, water is not just a thirst-quencher; it is the ‘fuel’ your body needs to function optimally.
At YourLifeChoices, we encourage our readers to reflect on their hydration habits. Have you noticed a change in your mood or energy levels after decreasing or increasing your water intake? Share your experiences in the comments below and let us start a conversation about the importance of staying hydrated for a happier, healthier life.
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