In our busy lives, we often forget simple health habits, like remembering to drink enough water. This seemingly mundane act can lead to extraordinary benefits for both the mind and body.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the ways drinking plenty of water can help with your studies…

Brain boosting benefits

Your brain is composed of roughly 75% water, making hydration essential for cognitive function. When you drink enough water, you’re essentially fuelling your brain.

This can lead to…

• Improved concentration - Ever notice how difficult it can be to focus when you’re thirsty? That’s because dehydration can result in reduced attention span and memory.
• Mood enhancement - Studies have shown that even mild dehydration can affect your mood. Keeping well-hydrated helps to maintain stable emotions.
• Prevention of headaches - dehydration is a common trigger for headaches and migraines. Drinking enough water can help stave off these unwelcome interruptions to your day.

Physical perks of drinking water

From digestion to circulation, drinking water is crucial for maintaining bodily functions.

• Energy levels - dehydration can lead to feelings of fatigue and sluggishness. When you drink water, you are aiding the transport of nutrients and oxygen to cells. This means that such a simple task is maintaining your energy levels.
• Detoxification - water is vital for flushing out toxins from your body.
• Skin health - hydrated skin is happy skin. Drinking water can improve your skin's elasticity and give you that healthy glow.

How to stay hydrated with a busy schedule

For many people, especially those with busy schedules, it’s easy to forget to drink water, even though it seems simple.

• Carry a reusable water bottle - having water on hand makes it easier to sip throughout the day. At Kaplan classroom centres, we no longer use single-use plastic cups. However, you can refill your bottles with drinking water if you need it.
• Set reminders - most of us have a timer with us at all times - our mobile phones! Use apps or set alarms to remind yourself to drink water regularly.
• Infuse flavours - if plain water doesn’t excite you, try adding a slice of lemon, cucumber or mint for a refreshing twist.
• Eat water-rich foods - it’s a good idea to incorporate foods like cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries into your diet to boost your water intake.

Win yourself a Kaplan refillable water bottle

We’re running a water challenge from 18 September to 2 October for all of our learners and colleagues.

There are five limited edition Kaplan reusable bottles that are available to win. Challenge yourself to drink six to eight glasses of water a day to get involved.

Share your favourite water cooler stories or photographs with us on social media by tagging us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or X (formerly Twitter) under the name: kaplanuk. Remember to also use the hashtag #KaplanWaterChallenge.

The next time you reach for a drink, make it water - your mind and body will thank you.