New Research Links Hydration and Longevity
Water serves a vital role in our bodies, helping to flush out toxins, aid in weight management, and maintain overall health. Recent studies have even suggested that staying hydrated could be a key factor in promoting longevity and anti-aging. Conversely, not drinking enough water can lead to elevated serum sodium levels, increasing the risk of chronic conditions like stroke, heart failure, and cognitive impairment.
According to modern medicine, the human body is composed of approximately 60 percent water. Water is crucial for the circulation of nutrients in the blood, metabolism, and waste elimination. Dehydration and insufficient water intake can result in more than just thirst; they can cause fatigue, anxiety, depression, poor concentration, restless sleep, and breathing difficulties. Furthermore, dehydration can lead to the development of various diseases, including chronic inflammation, pain, constipation, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Even obesity caused by overeating may be linked to dehydration. Increasing water intake could be the simple solution for some individuals.
The National Institutes of Health conducted a study tracking 11,255 individuals over 25 years, excluding participants with high serum sodium levels due to factors like obesity and medication use. They found that even when serum sodium levels were within the normal range, those with higher levels had an increased risk of biological aging and developing chronic diseases at a younger age. Serum sodium levels above 142 mmol/l were associated with a 64 percent increased risk of conditions like stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, peripheral vascular disease, chronic lung disease, diabetes, and cognitive impairment.
Drinking plain water is the best option for maintaining good health. Some considerations to keep in mind include the water’s temperature, which should be around body temperature to avoid harming the throat or affecting blood circulation. Afternoon, between 3 to 5 pm, is the recommended period to drink more water as the bladder meridian is active, aiding in metabolism and detoxification. Additionally, drinking a glass of water two hours before bedtime can prevent blood from thickening and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Tap water, filtered using activated carbon to remove impurities and toxic substances, is the best choice for health. Purified and processed waters may not offer the same benefits as natural water. Alkaline ionized water, while beneficial for some, could exacerbate certain conditions, and reverse osmosis (RO) water may deplete essential minerals and trace elements.
In conclusion, prioritizing simplicity and naturalness when it comes to water consumption is crucial for our health. Adequate hydration plays a significant role in promoting longevity and disease prevention. So, let’s make sure to prioritize drinking enough water to support our overall well-being.
