A worldly habit that helps you live longer
To slow down aging, it is recommended to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily. According to a recent study, this simple habit can help prevent the risk of chronic disease and premature death.
Staying hydrated is known to have numerous health benefits, and a recent study will convince you to drink more water. More precisely, a study by American experts published in electronic biomedicine shows that proper hydration increases life expectancy by preventing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart failure, stroke and diabetes.
To reach this conclusion, the researchers analyzed medical data from 11,000 adults aged 45 to 90 over a 30-year period. In particular, scientists monitored the level of sodium in the body of the subjects. When fluid intake is low, sodium levels in the body increase.
Their observation is simple: Adults over 30 who had too much sodium were more likely to undergo biological aging, especially because water restriction leads to DNA damage and cellular inflammation, accelerating the aging process. topsante.fr.
“The results show that adequate hydration can slow aging and prolong disease-free life,” confirmed Dr. Natalia Dmitrieva, a researcher at the National Institutes of Health and lead author of the study.
What is a “normal” sodium level? In a healthy person it should be between 133 and 145 millimoles per liter of blood. However, at a sodium level of 142, experts observed the risk of a person's biological age exceeding his real age, as well as an increase in the risk of developing chronic diseases by 64%. From 144 millimoles they even found an increase in the risk of premature death at 21%.
Why is hydration important?
Water is indispensable for the “transport” of all substances in the body, including minerals and vitamins, helps eliminate toxins and is necessary for maintaining organ health.
Approximately 60% of the human body is made up of water, this fluid is present in all parts of the body - cells, organs, blood, etc. Water ensures the balance of fluids (plasma, etc.) and the exchange of electrolytes and microelements between cell membranes. It is also involved in biochemical or enzymatic reactions. Hydration is also important to maintain proper muscle function and regulate body temperature.
Participation in digestion
Water is necessary for the proper functioning of digestion and preventing constipation. A glass of water half an hour before meals prepares the stomach for better absorption of nutrients. Water is also involved in the formation of saliva, which is so necessary during chewing, swallowing and digestion.
Eliminates toxins
Drinking enough water helps eliminate toxins and speed up cellular renewal. Researchers have linked poor hydration to an increased risk of bladder and colon cancer because toxins accumulate in these areas.
Supports proper brain function
Hydration levels also affect brain activity. Research has shown that even mild dehydration can affect brain functions such as attention, thinking and coordination. The study also found that students who drink water before an exam have improved brain activity. Loss of water through urine and sweat also leads to migraine-type headaches. Without adequate fluid intake, energy levels are also lower.
Gives the skin a pleasant appearance
Adequate hydration is essential to maintain youthful skin. Dehydrated skin makes it easier to notice wrinkles or fine lines. At the same time, in people who usually consume little water, the skin dries more easily and loses elasticity.
It speeds up metabolism
Water also participates in metabolic processes; in its absence or low supply, biochemical and energy processes slow down.
If you want to lose weight, replace high-calorie drinks with water. Drinking a glass of water before meals will help you eat less.
Prevents urinary infections
Good kidney function is influenced by water consumption. Dehydrated people have an increased risk of urinary tract infections, sand or kidney stones, and long-term water deprivation can even lead to kidney failure.
