For older people, not drinking enough water in the long term can lead to serious problems such as constipation, a decline in memory, not being able to function as well, having a fall, and having a stroke.
If dehydration is ongoing (chronic), it can affect your kidney function and increase the risk of kidney stones. It can also lead to muscle damage and constipation.
Water also contributes to regular bowel function, optimal muscle performance, and clear, youthful-looking skin. However, failing to drink enough water can cause dehydration and adverse symptoms, including fatigue, headache, weakened immunity, and dry skin.
“Decreased body water content is the most common factor that increases serum sodium, which is why the results suggest that staying well hydrated may slow down the aging process and prevent or delay chronic disease.”
Experts generally recommend that older adults consume at least 1.7 liters of fluid per 24 hours. This corresponds to 57.5 fluid ounces, or 7.1 cups. What are the best fluids to prevent dehydration?
As a general rule, you should take one-third of your body weight and drink that number of ounces in fluids. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, aim to drink 50 ounces of water each day.
You'll feel less hungry and may even lose weight. You'll probably experience more comfortable digestion (less heartburn). Bowel movements might be easier and more regular. Your teeth and gums will be healthier and more resilient.
Here is one more reason to enjoy that morning cup of joe: “Coffee counts toward your daily water intake,” says Lauren DeWolf, MS, RD, a registered dietitian with Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Centers. The water in coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages helps us meet our daily fluid needs.
The average person will take about 10 minutes or less for their body to process one glass of water because they have normal levels of bodily functions such as digestion and absorption.
You are probably all aware of the “cardinal rule” that says adults should drink six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
Your body needs water – a lot of it. Dehydration leads to constipation, which leads to bloating. And while it may seem counterintuitive to drink more water, when your body gets the hydration it finally needs, it lets go of the liquid it doesn't. Be sure to drink at least eight, eight-ounce glasses a day.
Drinking plenty of water balances the water and oil content on your facial skin, preventing the buildup of excess oil and sebum and resulting in fewer clogged pores and breakouts.
You will begin to feel constantly tired, even after getting enough sleep. This can also lower the volume of blood in your body. The thicker your blood becomes, the harder your cardiovascular system has to work. Your heart rate and breathing may both increase due to this.
Increases Muscle Cramping : Dehydration can cause muscle spasms and cramping leading contributing to joint pain. Joint Degeneration : Chronic dehydration can result in loss of blood volume sparking of chain reaction resulting in overall functional decline and joint degeneration.
The saliva your body creates to clean and lubricate your mouth kills bacteria, according to Dr. McCaffrey. If you're not drinking enough water, your mouth is not producing enough saliva to get rid of the bacteria. He added as bacteria begins to multiply, your breath will begin to smell.
You should aim for 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day. Here are some simple tips for making sure you reach your goal and get enough water. Sip on drinks throughout the day. Get a reusable water bottle with a straw and fill it with plain water.
Women should have about 2 litres (8 cups) of fluids a day, and men about 2.6 litres (10 cups). Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need more fluid each day than other women. Dehydration can happen when the body's fluids are low. It can be life threatening, especially to babies, children and the elderly.
For a variety of reasons, it is easy for a senior to become dehydrated and not meet their recommended fluid intake for the elderly of 56 ounces per day. Dehydration is dangerous and can happen quicker than you think. Some signs of dehydration to watch out for include: Feeling very thirsty.