Longevity is More than Just a Workout or eating a healthy diet: Unveiling a Surprising Habit Boosting Lifespan Through Healthy Aging.
Staying well-hydrated as an adult has been found to have significant health benefits, including a lower risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart and lung disease, and a longer lifespan, according to a recent study published in eBioMedicine by the National Institutes of Health.
The study examined health data from 11,255 adults over a span of 30 years, focusing on the relationship between serum sodium levels and various health indicators. Serum sodium levels increase when fluid intake decreases, and the researchers discovered that adults with higher serum sodium levels within the normal range were more prone to developing chronic conditions and displaying signs of accelerated biological aging compared to those with medium-range serum sodium levels. Furthermore, individuals with elevated serum sodium levels were also more likely to experience premature mortality.
The findings highlight the importance of maintaining adequate hydration for overall health and well-being. Ensuring sufficient fluid intake can play a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases, promoting longevity, and slowing down the aging process.
The findings of the study reveal “proper hydration may slow down aging and prolong a disease-free life,” adds author Natalia Dmitrieva.
The latest study builds upon previous research conducted by scientists and published in March 2022. The earlier study had already identified a connection between higher ranges of normal serum sodium levels and an elevated risk of heart failure. Both of these significant findings were derived from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, which encompasses various sub-studies involving a large number of Black and white adults from across the United States. The initial sub-study commenced in 1987 and has played a pivotal role in enhancing our understanding of risk factors associated with heart disease, as well as shaping clinical guidelines for its prevention and treatment.
In this recent analysis, the researchers examined data obtained from study participants during five medical visits. The first two visits occurred when the participants were in their 50s, while the last visit took place when they were between the ages of 70 and 90. To ensure a fair comparison regarding the correlation between hydration and health outcomes, individuals with high serum sodium levels at the baseline check-ins or those with underlying conditions, such as obesity, that could influence serum sodium levels were excluded from the study.
The researchers then assessed how serum sodium levels related to biological aging, which was evaluated using 15 health markers. These markers included factors such as systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, providing insights into the functioning of each person’s cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, renal, and immune systems. Adjustments were made for factors such as age, race, biological sex, smoking status, and hypertension.
The findings revealed that adults with higher levels of normal serum sodium, falling within the range of 135-146 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L), were more likely to exhibit signs of accelerated biological aging. This was determined based on indicators such as metabolic and cardiovascular health, lung function, and inflammation. For instance, individuals with serum sodium levels above 142 mEq/L had a 10-15% increased likelihood of being biologically older than their actual age compared to those with levels ranging between 137-142 mEq/L. Moreover, levels above 144 mEq/L were associated with a 50% increase in this risk. Similarly, serum sodium levels ranging from 144.5-146 mEq/L were linked to a 21% elevated risk of premature death compared to levels between 137-142 mEq/L.
Similarly, adults with serum sodium levels above 142 mEq/L had an increased risk, up to 64%, of developing chronic diseases such as heart failure, stroke, atrial fibrillation, peripheral artery disease, chronic lung disease, diabetes, and dementia. On the other hand, adults with serum sodium levels between 138-140 mEq/L have the lowest risk of developing chronic diseases.
It’s important to note that these findings do not establish a causal relationship, as highlighted by the researchers. To determine whether optimal hydration can promote healthy aging, prevent diseases, and contribute to a longer life, randomized controlled trials are needed. Nevertheless, these associations can still provide valuable insights for clinical practice and help individuals make informed decisions about their health.
“People whose serum sodium is 142 mEq/L or higher would benefit from evaluation of their fluid intake,” adds Dmitrieva.
It is important to emphasize that increasing fluid intake is generally safe for the majority of individuals. This can be achieved not only by consuming water but also by incorporating other fluid sources such as juices, vegetables, and fruits with high water content. The National Academies of Medicine provide guidelines for daily fluid consumption. For women, it is recommended to consume approximately 6-9 cups (1.5-2.2 liters) of fluids per day, while men are advised to aim for 8-12 cups (2-3 liters). These recommendations promote adequate hydration for optimal health.
Image Credit: Getty