Water deficiency may echo through decades: the heart is at risk

Scientists tracked 15,792 volunteers aged 44–66 over 25 years and found a link between hydration levels in middle age and the risk of heart failure and left ventricular hypertrophy decades later. Each 1 mmol/L increase in serum sodium concentration was associated with a higher likelihood of these conditions.

Scientists conducted a 25-year study involving 15,792 volunteers aged 44 to 66. They examined the relationship between serum sodium concentration, which indirectly reflects hydration levels, and heart health decades later. Participants were divided into four groups based on average sodium concentration. Analysis showed that each 1 mmol/L increase in sodium in middle age was associated with a higher probability of left ventricular hypertrophy and heart failure. Researchers emphasize that this is a correlation, not a causal link, and that heart failure depends on many factors. Nevertheless, the results point to the importance of maintaining adequate hydration throughout life as a potential factor in reducing the risk of heart disease. There is no universal norm for water intake—needs depend on diet, activity, and body condition.