Dehydration is unfortunately a pretty common issue for people of all ages. Some studies suggest that as many as 75% of Americans could be chronically dehydrated at any given moment. It's easy to fall short of your body's daily water intake needs if you're busy, stressed or preoccupied with other things.
Dehydration may be a common issue, but that doesn't mean it's not serious. Whether chronic or acute, it can negatively impact physical health and cognition. Dehydration in the workplace can be particularly troublesome because it can lead to decreased employee productivity and performance. Here's why offices are rethinking hydration and offering better water to their employees.
What's the big deal about water
More forward-thinking workplaces are choosing to install an office drinking water system that gives employees access to cold, filtered water. You may be wondering why it's such a big deal to have filtered water at work. Can't employees stay hydrated with more traditional breakroom beverages like soda, juice and energy drinks? Contrary to popular belief, sugary or caffeinated beverages may not curb dehydration in the workplace. In fact, they're likely making dehydration even worse.
Caffeine and sugar can act as diuretics. When consumed regularly, they can potentially make dehydration worse by stimulating the body to expel more fluids. Water, on the other hand, rehydrates the body by replacing fluids lost throughout the day. Water can also help the body maintain an ideal temperature so it's less likely to overheat.
Benefits of proper employee hydration
You don't have to remove fun, sugary beverages from the office space. However, it's wise to also give employees access to clean, cold water. Research shows a connection between proper hydration and improved physical and cognitive performance. When your employees have enough water throughout the day, they're more likely to stay focused and productive. Here are some additional reasons modern offices are putting more emphasis on employee hydration:
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Increased productivity
Every business owner or manager hopes to maximize productivity in the workplace because increased productivity translates to increased profits. Many business leaders focus on boosting productivity through goal-setting and improved task prioritization. However, few even consider the important role water intake can play on worker productivity and motivation.
A University of East London study shows that drinking a single glass of water can boost reaction times by up to 14%. Workers are more likely to choose water over other beverages when it tastes good and is located in a convenient area of the office. Installing a filtered water dispenser at work is a great way to meet both of these criteria.
Improved energy levels
If you've ever been dehydrated, you know firsthand how profoundly insufficient water intake can impact your energy levels. Dehydration leads to slower reaction times and physical fatigue. When employees feel tired and sluggish, they tend to have reduced work output.
Well-hydrated workers tend to have an easier time taking care of their daily tasks. Water boosts energy in a variety of ways. It carries oxygen and essential nutrients to cells throughout the brain and body. It also helps maintain blood volume, making it easier for the heart to pump oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. Finally, adequate water intake supports mitochondrial function, which helps increase energy within the body's cells.
Reduced health risks and workplace accidents
Even mild dehydration can reduce concentration, increase fatigue and impair reaction times. Employees who are unable to think or react quickly to potentially dangerous situations are at a higher risk of experiencing workplace injuries. Compromised decision-making capabilities due to dehydration can also lead to workplace accidents that harm workers and cost your company money.
Employees who drink adequate water throughout the day may have fewer health risks and workplace accidents. The human brain loves water, and it needs adequate hydration to function optimally. Good water intake can boost cognitive function, enhance coordination and improve motor skills. Therefore, it's especially critical for employees who operate heavy machinery or other potentially dangerous equipment to prioritize their water intake throughout the day.
How to improve hydration in the workplace
Now that you know how crucial it is to keep employees well-hydrated, you may be wondering how to achieve this goal. You can't force workers to drink a required amount of water throughout the day. However, you can encourage optimal hydration in the following ways:
● Give employees reusable water bottles as a workplace perk.
● Encourage workers to set digital cues or reminders to drink water throughout the day. This is especially important for employees who work in the heat or who have physically strenuous jobs.
● Make water easily accessible by placing filtered water dispensers in high-traffic areas of the office.
● Lead by example and make sure you're prioritizing water intake each day.
● Implement hydration-tracking challenges and rewards for individuals and departments.
● Educate employees on the impact of dehydration on brain function.
Modernize your workplace with a convenient water dispenser
Astute employers know how important it is to give employees easy access to great-tasting, filtered water. Installing a filtered water dispenser in the office is a great way to help your workers stay healthy, focused and happy at work.