Drinking Too Little Puts Body Under Extra Stress

Drinking too little water could increase our vulnerability to stress-related health issues, according to a new study from scientists at LJMU. People who drink less than the recommended daily fluid intake experience a greater stress hormone response, which is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and depression.

A new study, published today (August 22, 2025) in the Journal of Applied Physiology, and reported in The Conversation, found that individuals who drank less than 1.5 litres of fluid – or seven cups of tea – per day had a cortisol response to stress that was over 50% higher than those who met daily water intake recommendations.

Study lead Professor Neil Walsh, a physiologist in LJMU’s School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, said: “Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone and exaggerated cortisol reactivity to stress is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and depression.”

Read More: Liverpool John Moores University

Source: ENN