A special sensor monitors the hydration level in real time

The sensor is based on bioimpedance: a technology in which a light and safe electric current is passed through the skin. How quickly it passes depends on the amount of water in the tissues.: the more water there is, the less resistance there is. The gadget is worn on the arm, and the data is automatically transferred to the smartphone. It’s simple: you can check how dehydrated you are at any time and drink water on time. “Dehydration is a silent threat. It can imperceptibly worsen your well—being every day,” says Professor Nanshu Lu, the author of the study.

Scientists recommend using this device for the following categories of people:

• Athletes: without waiting for cramps or fatigue, you can replenish the water in time
• Firefighters and military: in extreme heat, it is important to avoid dehydration
• Office workers: even mild dehydration reduces concentration and efficiency
• Elderly and patients: Chronic dehydration is often overlooked, but it increases the risk of illness

Testing of the device was quite simple: the participants took diuretics to provoke fluid loss. The sensor accurately detected changes that coincided with urine tests and weight loss. Also, the observed group wore the device for 24 hours, and the gadget consistently reflected the level of hydration even when walking, working and resting. “We have proved that a change in the bioimpedance of the hand can be reliably used as an indicator of the overall hydration of the body,” says co—author Matija Jankovic.

It is claimed that dehydration is even 1-2% of the norm.:

• Impairs memory and attention
• Reduces physical endurance
• Disrupts thermoregulation
• Increases the risk of kidney stones, heart strain, and heat stroke.

And although urine and blood tests are accurate, they are not suitable for frequent or continuous monitoring. The new gadget fills this niche: it is compact, simple and can become a part of your daily routine. “This is just the beginning. We want everyone to be able to monitor their health — without complications and expensive tests,” says Nanshu Lu.