Nutrition

Tip written by Sodexo, collaborating company with the BBHI. We all know that water is one of the most important nourishments or nutrients, and not surprisingly it is for our brains as well. Water makes up about 2/3 of our body weight and around 85% of the brain’s weight, and sometimes we don’t drink enough of it. Adequate hydration is essential for our body to work properly as it has a cognitive impact and is a key factor in brain activity. Mild dehydration may result in changes in our attention and even memory. However, severe dehydration (i.e. losing over 2% of body weight in fluids) can lead to major alterations in cognitive performance and even death in the worst of cases. This means we should pay special attention to the elderly or people with a health problem.   We need to drink enough water to maintain our wellbeing. Although the recommendations do not specify exact amounts, an approximate intake of 2 litres of water per day is advisable (here we mean water and not soft drinks, fruit juice or other beverages) or alternatively between 25-30 ml of water per kilo per day, topped up as needed in case of increased physical activity and/or excessive sweating. With this and the water provided by the foods in our diet (such as fruit, vegetables, milk, etc.) we will ensure best possible water health... your body will thank you and your brain will too!