A New Breakthrough: Water, the Secret to a Longer Life.

A New Breakthrough: Water, the Secret to a Longer Life

Dr. Chris Daily

PT | DPT | OCS | CSCS  

Physical Therapist and Golf Performance Specialist


Today I'm excited to share with you a breakthrough that's stirring the waters in the world of health and longevity. 


The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently published a study revealing a fascinating link between hydration and aging!​


Think of water as your body’s super-fuel. Making up around 60% of our body, its essential for almost every function. 


Imagine a bustling city - that's your body, and water. It's the subway system that keeps everything moving smoothly, from delivering nutrients to regulating temperature. 

So What’s the Important Breakthrough?

The National Health Institute carried out a long study, lasting 30 years, with over 11,000 adults. They looked closely at how drinking enough water affects our long term health. The study used special methods to track the levels of sodium in the blood. Sodium levels get higher when we don't drink enough water. 

The results were shocking.

The study found that adults with higher sodium levels in their blood were at a much greater risk of developing long-term health problems such as heart failure, stroke, and diabetes. They also showed signs of aging quicker than those who had lower sodium levels and drank more water.

The results of the study revealed an important fact: drinking enough fluids is crucial for aging well. Dr. Natalia Dmitrieva, Ph.DA lead researcher on the study, recommends that people with high blood sodium levels need to start drinking more fluids right away! 

You can get more fluids not just from water but also from other drinks and foods high in water, like fruits and veggies. Even the tea you drink in the morning, the milk in your cereal, and the lettuce in your salad help keep you hydrated. It's all about finding different ways to get more water into your day!

Hydration: A Daily Routine. So, How Much Should We Drink? 

If you're someone who loves a morning jog or gardening, your body’s hydration needs to kick up a notch. Water isn't just quenching thirst; it's replenishing your energy, almost like a natural sports drink. It's crucial to listen to your body and recognize the subtle signs of dehydration like fatigue, dizziness, or confusion. Remember, staying hydrated isn't just about drinking water; it involves a balanced intake of fluids and hydrating foods throughout the day.

While it's usually good to drink more water, everyone's health situation is different. Some medicines and health issues can change how much water you need. For example, people with heart problems might need to follow a special plan for how much water they drink. It's always a good idea to talk to a doctor or healthcare expert about your own hydration needs!

Understanding Your Hydration Needs 

If you're someone who loves a morning jog or gardening, your body’s hydration needs to kick up a notch. Water isn't just quenching thirst; it's replenishing your energy, almost like a natural sports drink. It's crucial to listen to your body and recognize the subtle signs of dehydration like fatigue, dizziness, or confusion. Remember, staying hydrated isn't just about drinking water; it involves a balanced intake of fluids and hydrating foods throughout the day.

While it's usually good to drink more water, everyone's health situation is different. Some medicines and health issues can change how much water you need. For example, people with heart problems might need to follow a special plan for how much water they drink. It's always a good idea to talk to a doctor or healthcare expert about your own hydration needs!

The Bottom Line 

This new revelation from the National Health Institute isn't just another health tip; it's a serious call to action. By making hydration a priority in our daily lives, we can potentially slow down the aging process and lead a much longer, healthier, disease-free life. 

So, let's raise our glasses (of water!) to a healthier, more vibrant future as we journey through our 50s and beyond!