Drinking too little water could increase our vulnerability to stress-related health issues, according to a new study from scientists at LJMU.
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
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