Liverpool: A study has found that people who fail to drink sufficient water show a stronger biological response to stress. Researchers discovered that individuals with lower water consumption release higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol, even though they do not report feeling more thirsty compared to those with adequate water intake. According to Emirates News Agency, experts suggest that maintaining hydration by keeping a water bottle handy during stressful times could be beneficial for long-term health. The study was conducted by a team at Liverpool John Moores University and involved a sample group of 32 participants. This group was divided into two categories: 16 individuals who drank less than 1.5 litres of water per day and 16 who met the daily fluid intake guidelines. The research adhered to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidelines, which recommend a daily water intake of 2.5 litres for men and two litres for women. In the United Kingdom, the Eatwell Guide advises adults to consum e between six and eight cups of fluid daily, equating to approximately 1.5 to two litres. However, the study notes that fluid requirements can increase in hot weather, during periods of high physical activity, recovery from illness, or for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding.