Researchers used a large population-based observational study with a 25-year follow-up to carry out the investigation on the side effects of dehydration.
According to a recent National Institutes of Health study, dehydration may age people more quickly and have a higher chance of developing chronic diseases. In addition, people with dehydration are more likely to pass away at an earlier age. Published in the journal eBioMedicine, the study is titled as “Middle-age high normal serum sodium as a risk factor for accelerated biological ageing, chronic illnesses, and early mortality.”
Your body becomes dehydrated when it loses more fluids than it is consuming. Water is essential to several bodily functions, such as temperature regulation, waste removal, and joint lubrication. As you age, it’s especially crucial to stay hydrated.
Researchers explored the idea that maintaining optimal hydration might delay human ageing.
Study into dehydration and its side effects:
The study into dehydration was carried out by focusing on a sizable population-based observational study. Then it was followed by a lengthy 25-year investigation. The team obtained information from Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities project. Serum sodium served as a stand-in for hydration patterns.
The biological age was determined by age-dependent biomarkers. This was done to measure the relative rate of ageing. Also, they evaluated the risks of chronic diseases and early mortality in the context of dehydration.
Results proved dehydration cause chronic diseases:
The results show that proper hydration may slow down ageing and prolong a life free of disease. Also, mice with lifelong water restrictions live shorter lives and develop degenerative conditions more quickly.
The investigation revealed that middle-aged blood sodium levels above 142 mmol/l are linked to a 39% higher chance of developing chronic illnesses. And, there is a 20% increased risk of premature death if it is greater than 144 mmol/l. However, intervention studies are required to confirm the association between dehydration and ageing.
Consequently, experts are working to identify mechanisms and put preventive measures in place that might slow down the ageing process.
Parvathy Sukumaran 
