THE LINK BETWEEN HYDRATION AND LONGEVITY

Learn about the relationship between staying hydrated and living a longer, healthier life.

By: Maggie Pace

WATER FILTERS = HEALTHY LIVING

Water accounts for more than half of the adult human body by weight, so it’s no surprise that people need a lot of it to live well and thrive. Water is a key ingredient in your body’s makeup, and in addition to helping you regulate your temperature, it also helps you digest food and maintain the growth and well-being of your organs. But did you know that there’s a link between hydration and longevity? In a recent study, the National Institutes of Health found that proper hydration can help people live longer, healthier lives. The study also argued that people who were less hydrated were at a greater risk of developing chronic health conditions.

In this article, we’ll explore the link between hydration and longevity, including how much water you should drink each day, the benefits of hydration, tips for drinking more water, and how to make sure you’re drinking the best water for your body.

Study suggests staying well-hydrated may promote longevity.

The world’s population is aging as people are living longer than ever, which has led to an epidemic of age-related chronic diseases. To combat this, medical researchers are increasingly searching for ways to slow down aging and prevent such diseases.

One such study from The National Institutes of Health recently found that a person’s hydration levels can be a good predictor of whether they develop chronic health conditions. This followed up on previous research that connected good hydration to a reduced risk of heart failure, and a prior finding that restricting the water intake of mice shortens their lifespan. According to the new study, which explored whether hydration might also be associated with aging in people, poor hydration may accelerate biological aging and increase the risk of chronic disease and death.

The researchers looked at the concentration of serum sodium (salt) in participants’ blood at various points in their lives, over a 25-year span, to see how hydrated they were and then compared hydration levels to their health. People with serum sodium near the middle of the normal range had the lowest mortality rate. In contrast, people with higher levels (above 144 mmol/L, an indicator of dehydration) had a 39% higher risk of developing chronic diseases, including heart failure, dementia, chronic lung disease, and stroke. They were also 50% more likely to have biological markers older than their actual age—meaning a dehydrated person may appear biologically older than they actually are, essentially aging at a faster rate. What’s more, people with higher sodium levels had a 21% greater risk of dying at an earlier age.

These findings have sparked many discussions about the relationship between hydration and longevity, suggesting that optimal hydration is essential for long-term health.

Does drinking water help you live longer?

Adequate hydration is essential for the proper functioning of the body’s systems, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. So, yes, drinking water may help you live longer and support your overall well-being. Staying well-hydrated supports cardiovascular health because it helps maintain blood volume and circulation, reducing the risk of heart-related issues. Good hydration also supports kidney function by aiding in the elimination of waste products from the body.

As we age, the body’s ability to retain water diminishes, making older adults more susceptible to dehydration, which can lead to serious health complications. Chronic dehydration has been linked to kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and even cognitive decline.

 

It’s crucial to remember that the quality of the water you consume is arguably more significant than the quantity. Consuming large amounts of polluted water, even at low levels, could lead to a host of problems. These could range from immediate threats from waterborne diseases to health effects that manifest over time due to prolonged exposure to contaminants such as microplastics and lead, which may not be visible to the naked eye.

Before you increase your water consumption, it’s advisable to consider using a water filter to enhance its safety by eliminating contaminants. For instance, Filpure Water Filtration Systems’ Advanced King series are certified to remove up to 99.99% of 90 contaminants. Importantly, it can also remineralizer the water with beneficial minerals like calcium, ensuring that your water is not just safe, but also contributes positively to your health.

Health Advantages of Hydration Securing adequate hydration offers a plethora of health benefits that go beyond merely quenching thirst and can enhance your longevity. Here are a few:

• Glowing Skin: Given that our skin is the largest organ in the body and the one we can visibly observe, it’s crucial to consume water to maintain its resilience and elasticity.
• Weight Management: Research indicates that water can aid in weight loss by accelerating metabolism, curbing appetite, and facilitating more efficient exercise.
• Brain Function: Water constitutes 75% of brain mass. The water in the brain aids in eliminating toxins and waste that can hinder brain function, transports nutrients to keep your brain healthy, and assists brain cells in communicating with each other. Dehydration can result in brain fog and slow down the brain’s reaction time. Studies reveal that being just 1% dehydrated can lead to a 5% decrease in cognitive function.
• Elevated Energy Levels: Maintaining good hydration boosts energy, fostering activity, alertness, and physical strength.
• Improved Blood Circulation: Hydration is vital for blood circulation, and enhanced blood flow benefits brain health, heart function, and overall wellness.
• Enhanced Physical Performance: Adequate hydration helps prevent injuries by maintaining optimal muscle function and joint lubrication during physical activities.
• Toxin Removal: Sufficient fluid intake aids in flushing out toxins from the body acquired through daily consumption of food and medications.
• Reduced Risk of Mental Health Issues: Proper hydration contributes to a lower risk of anxiety and depression, supporting overall mental well-being.

“Research indicates that being just 1% dehydrated can lead to a 5% decrease in cognitive function.”

How Much Filtered Water Should You Drink to Enhance Your Longevity? The average adult requires between 2.7 to 3.7 liters of water each day, or about 11-15 cups, according to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. However, the amount of water each person needs to stay healthy varies based on factors like gender, age, climate, and overall health status. For instance, if you’re someone who exercises frequently or resides in a hot, humid climate, you’ll likely need to drink more water to compensate for the fluids lost during your workout or through general sweating. It’s also important to remember that dehydration can be a result of high altitudes, as there is a noticeable link between fluid retention and high altitudes. Another instance is if you’re ill with a fever, diarrhea, or a urinary tract infection, you’ll need to increase your water intake as these conditions draw — or purge — fluid and electrolytes from your body, making you more prone to dehydration.

How to Determine If You’re Not Hydrated Enough While staying hydrated can enhance your health and longevity, being dehydrated can have severe consequences. Thirst isn’t always a reliable early indicator of the body’s need for water. Many people, particularly older adults, don’t feel thirsty until they’re already dehydrated. Here are some signs you’re not drinking enough water:

• You feel thirsty
• You’re more fatigued than usual
• Dizziness
• Frequent headaches
• Muscle cramps
• Dry skin
• Dry mouth, lips, and tongue
• Urinating less frequently than usual
• Dark-colored, strong-smelling urine

Strategies for Staying Hydrated for a Long and Healthy Life Boosting energy levels, promoting mental well-being, supporting vital organ functions, and aiding in detoxification are just a few of the many health benefits that proper hydration provides. It’s a cornerstone of overall health. While drinking a certain number of glasses of water each day is a practical starting point, it’s crucial to understand that individual hydration needs can vary based on factors like age, gender, and overall health. Striking a balance and paying attention to your body’s signals, such as thirst and urine color, are vital aspects of maintaining optimal hydration.

Here are a few tips for staying hydrated:

• Always Have a Water Bottle: You’re more likely to drink water when it’s readily available. Using a reusable water bottle not only reduces plastic waste but also lowers your environmental impact.
• Opt for Filtered Water: If your home’s water has an unpleasant taste or odour, it’s understandable if you’re hesitant to drink it. Filtering your water can improve its taste and smell and reduce potentially harmful contaminants.
• Flavour Your Water: Drinking plain water can sometimes be monotonous. Don’t hesitate to add flavour to your water by infusing it with fruit or adding natural flavor drops. Not only will your water taste better, but the fruit can also add important vitamins and antioxidants to boost nutrition.

The Quality of Your Water Matters The quality of the water we consume is just as important as the quantity. Ensuring that the water we drink is free from contaminants is an essential step toward better health. Filpure Water Filtration Systems’ complete whole house filtration, countertop, and under sink systems including Reverse Osmosis, can assist you in your journey to staying hydrated with better water. Filtering your water not only enhances its taste but also removes potentially harmful impurities, contributing to your overall well-being. With multiple models to choose from to suit your needs, Filpure’s filtration systems provide contaminant removal for delicious water that’s rich in beneficial minerals.

Explore Filpure’s selection of water filters & Reverse Osmosis for refreshing water today!