Effect of dehydration on cognitive functions

Abstract

Introduction and objective Water is one of the substances that ensure proper functioning of the brain. Dehydration leads to water loss which, in turn, contributes to a number of adverse changes taking place in the body. Dehydration has been shown to have negative effects on health, including cognitive decline. The aim of this article is to present current data on the effect of dehydration on selected cognitive functions and to emphasize the importance of adequate fluid consumption in selected age groups. Brief description of the state of knowledge The results of research published to date show that a significant proportion of the population is in a state of mild dehydration. Analysis of the relationship between dehydration and cognitive functions showed a negative effect in the case of body water loss higher than 2%, regardless of age. A negative effect of dehydration was confirmed primarily on concentration, memory and learning, as well as on selected executive functions. In groups at risk cognitive deterioration may occur much earlier. Based on the analysis of research, age groups may be distinguished that are particularly at risk of insufficient water intake and, therefore, are more liable to dehydration. These groups mainly include infants and young children, as well as the elderly and the sick. Summary Dehydration exerts a significant impact on cognitive functions; however, this relationship has not yet been fully described. Further research is needed in this area to assess the scale of the potential risk and to formulate more specific recommendations for hydration from the aspect of cognitive functions.

Keywords

• cognitive functions
• water
• water intake
• dehydration
• cogni-tive performance