Without diet and exercise: an easy way to slow down aging and reduce the risk of early death

Drinking the right amount of water can slow down aging and cut your risk of dying young in half, according to new research. Independent.

Adults who drink about two liters of water a day are less likely to suffer from life-threatening diseases. For example, such as heart and lung diseases.

They also live longer than those who don't get enough fluids.

The results of the study are based on data from 11 people. They have been observed for 255 years. They may lead to the development of a screening program for older patients.

The recommendation, known as the "8x8 rule," advises drinking eight 240-ounce glasses a day (nearly two liters) in addition to other beverages.

People are offered to take bottles in the subway. And students should bring them to class. No office meeting should start without a huge jug in the middle of the table.

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Study co-author Dr. Natalia Dmitrieva of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) in Maryland, said: “These results suggest that proper hydration can slow down aging and prolong life without disease.”

Her team analyzed data from the ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) study, which included people from across the US.

A blood test showed that people with a high sodium content, which increases with reduced fluid intake, were more prone to chronic disease and progressive biological aging.

They were also more likely to die at a younger age than those in the middle range.

The researchers evaluated the information that the participants shared during five visits to the doctor. The first two at the age of 50 and the last at the age of 70 to 90.

Biological aging was measured by 15 indicators, including blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels. This has shed light on the health of the cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, renal and immune systems.

Other factors were taken into account, such as age, race, gender, smoking history, and hypertension.

Adults with higher sodium levels within the normal range—defined as 135-146 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L)—were more likely to show signs of ill health.

This was based on indicators such as metabolic and cardiovascular health, lung function, and inflammation.

For example, those whose readings exceeded 144 mEq/L were 50% more likely to be biologically older than their chronological age.

This was compared with values ​​ranging from 137 to 142 meq/L. A level of about 143 mEq/L correlated with an increased risk of up to 15%.

For those whose sodium levels exceeded 142 mEq/L, the number of chronic diseases increased by two-thirds (64%).

These included heart failure, stroke, atrial fibrillation and peripheral arterial disease, lung disease, diabetes and dementia.

Conversely, peers with sodium levels between 138 and 140 mEq/L had the lowest risk of developing these diseases.

Controlled trials are needed to determine whether optimal hydration can promote healthy aging, prevent disease, and lead to longer life.

However, the resulting associations can be used in clinical practice and in personal behavior.

Dr. Dmitrieva said: “People with serum sodium levels of 142 mEq/L or higher may benefit from assessing fluid intake.”

Most people can safely increase their fluid intake to recommended levels. This can be done with water, as well as other liquids such as juices, vegetables and fruits with a high water content.

The National Academies of Medicine recommend that women consume 6 to 9 glasses (1,5 to 2,2 liters) of fluid per day. And for men - from 8 to 12 glasses (2-3 liters).

Others may need a doctor's recommendation due to existing medical conditions.

Study co-author Dr Manfred Boehm said: “The goal is to make sure patients are drinking enough fluids while looking at factors such as medications that can lead to fluid loss. Physicians may also need to deviate from a patient's current treatment plan. For example, restrict fluid intake in heart failure.” 

Around half of the world's people do not meet the recommended daily water intake, which often starts with six glasses (1,5 liters).

Dr. Dmitrieva said: “On a global level, this could have a big impact. Decreased body water is the most common factor that increases serum sodium levels.”

The study builds on the results of a study published by scientists in March last year. Back then, they linked high ranges of normal serum sodium levels to heart failure.