The human body is made up of 1/3 water; hence proper hydration is essential to stay healthy. A study published in the journal "eBioMedicine" revealed that adults who stay hydrated appear to be fitter as they develop fewer chronic diseases and live longer than those who may not get enough fluids.

The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study concluded an association between higher normal ranges of serum sodium levels and elevated risks for heart failure based on earlier work published in March 2022.

Researchers studied the link between several health markers and serum sodium levels, which rise when fluid intake declines. The study included health information acquired from 11,255 participants over 30 years. 

They examined the relationship between serum sodium levels and biological ageing, which was measured using 15 different health markers including systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, renal, and immunological systems functioning, age, race, biological sex, smoking status, and hypertension.

They observed that based on indicators including lung function, inflammation, and metabolic and cardiovascular health, the persons with normal serum sodium levels over 135 to 146 milliequivalents per litre (mEq/L) were more likely to exhibit indications of biological aging at a faster rate. Also, the risk of acquiring chronic diseases such as heart failure, stroke, atrial fibrillation, peripheral artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and dementia rose by up to 64% in persons with serum sodium levels above 142 mEq/L. On the other hand, adults with serum sodium levels between 138 and 140 mEq/L had the lowest risk of contracting a chronic illness.

Experts suggested that consuming more fluids to the recommended levels can be done safely by including drinking water and other fluids such as juices, vegetables, and fruits with high water content. For instance, the National Academies of Medicine recommends that most women drink 6 to 9 cups (1.5 to 2.2 litres) of fluids per day and 8 to 12 cups for men (2-3 liters). The findings imply that adequate hydration may delay aging and lengthen a life free of disease.

(Source: https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/study-reveals-good-fluid-intake-aids-healthier-ageing-of-body-466762)