How Dehydration Impacts Sleep Quality
Dehydration occurs when the body does not have enough fluid intake to function properly. During sleep, the body is still active as it repairs and rebuilds tissue and energy throughout the night. Poor hydration during the day can lead to a decrease in sleep quality at night, leaving a person feeling fatigued and tired in the morning.
Many functions during the day require our bodies to use water, such as breathing, digestion, and perspiration. When our bodies do not have enough fluids available, it can become dehydrated and unable to perform these necessary functions at an optimal level. This can lead to an overall decrease in sleep quality as our bodies will struggle to repair and regenerate when hydration levels are low.
Research has indicated that dehydration can lead to a decrease in sleep quality. When insufficient quantities of water are available, it can affect a person’s ability to tolerate certain sleep disturbances, such as noise, temperature, and light. It also impacts a person’s control of changes in body temperature, which can lead to a restless night of sleep.
Impact of dehydration on the quality of sleep
Dehydration can cause discomfort, fatigue, and reduce the depth of your sleep. This can result in more frequent waking throughout the night, making it difficult to acquire the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep. This lack of restorative sleep can negatively impact brain function, reduce physical stamina, and lead to an increased feeling of irritability or mood swings.
Inadequate hydration levels can also lower the production of melatonin, which is responsible for helping the body regulate its sleep-wake cycle. Without sufficient melatonin, it may be difficult to initiate or maintain sleep throughout the night. Thus, it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure adequate hydration and better sleep at night.
Tips for improving your hydration
In order to improve your sleep quality, it is important to ensure that you stay properly hydrated during the day. Here are some tips for increasing your daily water intake:
- Drink fluids throughout the day. Try to drink up to 8-10 glasses of water daily.
- Drink fluids before, during, and after physical activity.
- Drink fluids before bed to ensure your body has enough hydration and resources during the night.
- Consume food with a high water content such as fruits and vegetables.
- Carry a water bottle with you throughout the day and refill it regularly.
Conclusion
Staying hydrated is an important part of having a healthy body and sleeping schedule. Dehydration can lead to a decrease in sleep quality, and thus, it is crucial to ensure that you are drinking enough fluids throughout the day in order to stay well hydrated and promote better sleep quality at night.