Water 'Just One of Many Factors'
“In terms of research design, the strongest conclusion that can be drawn from this sort of study is that hydration and happiness are associated,” says Barbara L. Frederickson, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The survey suggests a correlation, she says, but it's highly likely that another factor, such as conscientiousness, has a greater effect on both hydration and happiness.
The second thing to consider is the source of the study, says Evan Parks, a clinical psychologist at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Michigan. “This study was conducted by a company that has a vested interest in showing a relationship between good hydration with home-produced ice and the product they are selling (refrigerators),” says Parks.