Proper hydration key to reducing heart disease risk: Study

Scientific research clearly indicates that proper hydration provides effective protection against the development of serious chronic diseases. The results of this research were published in the prestigious journal "eBioMedicine".

Specialists from the National Institutes of Health have established that sufficient water intake provides numerous health benefits.

This is particularly evident with the heart. Previous studies have found that proper hydration can prevent heart failure. Dr. Natalia Dmitrieva, a research team member from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, emphasized that along with proper hydration, reducing salt intake can also decrease the risk of cardiovascular problems.

In her medical study, Dr. Dmitrieva decided to examine the relationship between dehydration and heart fibrosis. The research sample was extensive. Data were collected from 15,000 adult individuals aged 45 to 66. Participants provided information about their health status and medical visits over 25 years. The focus was on people who consumed water in amounts recommended by guidelines.

At the beginning of the study, participants did not show signs of diabetes, obesity, or heart failure. Out of the initial group of 15,000 individuals, 11,814 adults eventually developed heart failure.

Hydration levels were measured based on sodium concentration in the body, which increases as fluid levels decrease. Scientists suggest this link may be responsible for the increased risk of heart disease due to insufficient water intake. Reducing it may, therefore, be crucial.

Normal sodium concentration in the body ranges from 135 to 146 mmol/L. Study participants with sodium levels of at least 143 mmol/L were identified as having a higher risk of heart failure. As sodium levels increased, so did the likelihood of developing this dangerous condition. Therefore, people concerned about their heart should have their sodium levels regularly checked.

The authors note that further research is needed because the issue is extremely complex and requires in-depth analysis. However, proper hydration appears to be very important for our bodies.

Recommendations regarding water intake are clear. An adult should drink about 1.5 to 2 quarts of water daily. However, this situation changes in the case of heat or intense exercise; proper hydration in these circumstances requires drinking even 4 to 5 quarts of water.