Advanced nutrition: the impact of hydration on aging

Dehydration is a reduction in systemic water content due to fluid loss, insufficient fluid intake, or both. The following articles provide advice for the elderly and their own care or under the care of a carer's assistant. According to research conducted by Danone Research in Europe, there are several reasons for dehydration in the elderly:

1. The amount of lean muscle and water storage decreases with age: it is followed by an increase in body fat – a tissue that does not retain moisture. 4 to 6 litres of body water may be lost between the ages of 20 and 80 [Gile, 2010]. Therefore, even small water loss can lead to dehydration.

2. The feeling of thirst becomes dull: the mechanisms required for blood pressure regulation become less sensitive with age. In addition, neurotransmitters involved in thirst sensation reduce the regulation of impaired fluid intake.

3. Impaired renal function: Kidney moisture protection is impaired with age. The kidneys of the elderly cannot concentrate urine or use water. Impaired sodium regulation also reduces the body and maintains body water regulation.

4. Other risk factors: As you get older, problems with your throat cause difficulty swallowing and speaking. Nursing staff may also have problems with understanding and communication. A room that is too warm may cause dehydration. Nursing staff may forget to give water and so on. And some people prefer to drink coffee or sugary drinks, leading to more dehydration. Prescription drugs such as diuretics and laxatives can also cause insufficient water intake.

Prevent dehydration and require better monitoring

Flow recommendations: In the United States, the National Academy of Sciences recommends 3.7 liters [1 gallon] per day for men and 2.5 liters [.62 gallons] per day for women. The European Food Safety Authority has set a reference value of 2.5 litres [.62 gallons] for older men and 2 litres [.50 gallons] for women [1 gallon = 1 ounce]. Do you suspect that you have followed these recommendations. A 2009 study showed that 63% of people between the ages of 65 and 74 did not meet these recommendations. At the age of 85, the number of people who did not meet the recommendation increased to 81%!

This persistent dehydration has led to an increase in mortality in hospitalized elderly [Mentes, 2006]. The mortality rate for hospitalization due to dehydration is 50%. Even if there is no hospitalization for dehydration, a lack of fluid can increase the risk of death in December by 16-78%. It has also been found that dehydration increases the risk of repeat hospitalization.

Dehydration complicates cognitive function and falls leading to aging. Supplements such as Advocare Rehydrate, Gatoraide and Cytomax cannot be used due to complications of diseases such as congestive heart failure. Older people must also monitor sodium and potassium levels more closely.

in conclusion

Water is often a forgotten nutrient. It is an important part of the diet and the lack of proper hydration leads to a more difficult and uncomfortable aging process. Water is a must for active elderly people. However, older people and their caregivers sometimes ignore it. People cannot overemphasize the importance of drinking water every day.

Advanced nutrition: hydration and healthy aging was originally published on Spring