Don't Stay Thirsty! The Importance of Water Consumption and Aging

Summer calls for many ways to stay cool and refreshed, but your #1 source should be from drinking water. Whether you're headed to the lake, fishing, or gardening, it's extremely important that you stay hydrated in the heat. Interested in learning more about the positive benefits that come from H2O? Read on to quench your curiosity!

 Water and Aging

Unfortunately, our bodies means of continuously hydrating us decline with age. Older adults have reduced thirst signals, so it becomes extra important to monitor your H2O intake to be sure you are receiving enough water each day. Since older adults also have lower water reserves, compared to younger people, it makes it even more important to  increase your daily water consumption (and make it a habit!). In addition, older adults are more likely to regularly take medications that increase the risk of dehydration including those to treat heart failure and high blood pressure. Still not convinced? Learn more here!

What Can Water Do For You?

• Keep body temperature steady
• Lubricate and cushion joints
• Rid the body of wastes
• Maintain a balance of body fluids
• Can help to control calories
• Protect the spinal cord and other tissues within the body

Water by the Numbers

• Body fat contains about 10% water
• Muscle contains about 75% water
• Men should have a total body water percentage between 50 - 65%
• Women should have a total body water percentage between 45 - 60%

H2O Tips

1. Take a water bottle with you on-the-go. This gives you easy access to water whenever you start to get thirsty.

2. Choose water over sugary drinks throughout your day, especially if you are counting calories or going out to eat. This will also save your wallet a few bucks.

3. Put freezer safe water bottles into the freezer if you like your H2O extra chilly!

4. Infuse your water with fruits to give it more taste. Limes, lemons, cucumbers, or berries are always a delicious choice.

"We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one." - Jacques Cousteau

Want Even More Information?

 (Click here) to visit Cdc.gov or (Click here) to visit Heart.org 

for more on staying hydrated this summer!