Even slight dehydration measurably reduces decision-making ability and increases risk perception

A 2011 British Journal of Nutrition study found that even a 1.36% body weight water deficit produced measurable headache, reduced concentration, and increased perception of task difficulty in women. Air-conditioned offices have low relative humidity which increases insensible respiratory water loss. Many adults interpret the resulting headache, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating as signs of stress or hunger, and respond with a snack or coffee rather than water — perpetuating the cycle.

Simple Strategies

• 600 ml water on waking before coffee
• Water bottle on the desk — passive visibility increases consumption by 30–40% in studies
• Electrolyte tablets for long work sessions in air-conditioned environments
• Pale straw urine by 10am is the target