With World Book Day on the horizon, we thought it prudent to look at the connection between good hydration habits and one’s ability to read better. And not only to read better, but how drinking a sufficient volume of water daily not only assists with the brain’s cognitive function, increasing our ability for better comprehension but also can be more conducive to reading purely for enjoyment and not just to overcome illiteracy. The idea of a person not being able to read or indeed not even considering reading for enjoyment is an anathema to those who consider reading one of life’s great pursuits. Sadly, not being able to read for millions of people, children and adults alike, is reality.
There have been numerous studies on cognitive function and hydration. In one study, researchers from the University of East London and the University of Westminster in the UK analysed the potential effects of water on cognitive performance and mood among 34 participants with an average age of 29 years.
The study published in the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, involved participants taking part in a ‘water’ and a ‘no water’ experiment one week apart.
According to an article in Medical News Today, lead study author, Dr. Caroline Edmonds of the University Of East London School Of Psychology, said, “Our study found that reaction times were faster after people drank water, particularly if they were thirsty before drinking.”
The participants who drank around three cups of water (775 millilitres) just before completing the tests had a 14% increased reaction time compared with those who did not drink any water.
Here, at AquAid, we’re pleased that we’re able to do our part, in a number of ways: we supply water coolers to thousands of customers in the Education Sector, to colleges, schools, learning centres and universities. We understand how vital it is to have a consistent supply of refreshing drinking water, as maintaining good hydration habits enables students, of all ages, to function better, pay attention more easily and provides better comprehension overall.
This is why we value our customers and their support, which for more than 21 years, has helped us to be able to donate in excess of £17 million to charity. Charities like The Africa Trust and Christian Aid.
Both charities focus on breaking the cycle of poverty, increasing wealth creation and at the core, implementing safe water delivery projects to communities in clean water scarce regions, throughout Africa. These projects result in convenient access to potable and productive water. Water for children to drink, water to grow food, all which contribute towards more opportunities for the children to attend school, to learn, read and gain an education.
