How Does Hydration Change as We Age?

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As we age, our bodies and their needs change. You can run around all day as a kid, but a demanding workout when you’re older will likely leave you feeling sore the next day. Another demand affected by age is hydration. Let’s take a look at how your hydration needs and the effects of dehydration change as you age.

Your body’s water content

A high percentage of our body is made up of water. That’s why dehydration can be so dangerous. But, this percentage of water content actually changes as we age. Water percentage in babies is around 75%, but this quickly drops to 65% after their first year. On average, adult bodies contain approximately 55 – 60% water, and this may reduce as you reach your senior years.

Because older adults have a lower water content, it’s all the more important for them to drink plenty of water to keep their fluid levels replenished, especially in hot weather or if they are physically active.

Young and old are more at risk

It’s not just seniors that are more at risk of dehydration, but also babies and infants. Although they have a high water content in their bodies, they also have a smaller amount of fluid because of their small size. So, even small changes in the levels of water in their bodies can have a big impact on their health.

Diuretics and adults

When we reach adulthood, most people discover the benefits of drinking coffee to stay alert and drinking alcohol in social settings. While okay in moderation, these drinks have a diuretic effect, which means they promote urination, making you lose more fluids. If you regularly drink coffee or if you drink too much on a night out, then it’s important that you replace those lost fluids. Drink plenty of water in between other drinks and make sure you rehydrate before bed and after waking up.

Weaker thirst signals

Many people only drink when they feel thirsty. But really, we should be drinking regularly enough that we don’t get to the point of thirst. As we get older, particularly past the age of 50, it’s common for that feeling of thirst to get weaker, even when we need more water. Because of this, it is even more important for older adults to drink regularly rather than waiting until they feel thirsty.

We hope this has given you an idea of how important water is at all stages of life. Make sure you have a steady supply of fresh and delicious water in your home or office with Mountain Park Spring Water. Get in touch to find out more about our spring water delivery service.