Those who are thirsty drink too late.
Water scarcity – a health risk for young and old
Even mild fluid deficits lead to significant declines in well-being and performance. Proper fluid balance is vital not only for athletes, but also for professionals, and especially for seniors, as water is the elixir of life. Insufficient fluid intake, on the other hand, quickly impairs various bodily functions, potentially leading to serious health consequences. Fatigue or headaches are early warning signs of an imbalanced fluid level in the body.
Without sufficient fluid intake, there is a risk of dehydration.
Water is essential for life: dehydration can lead to constipation, a significant reduction in performance, confusion, and even unconsciousness. Thrombosis is also a risk, and in the worst case, organ failure.
People who are thirsty often drink too late, because the sensation of thirst varies from person to person and is not a reliable indicator. Thirst is primarily the body's alarm signal indicating a need for fluids. This is particularly relevant for people in the second half of life. While seniors who remain active generally drink as much as before, problems arise more frequently with increasing age. The sensation of thirst diminishes, and adequate fluid intake is repeatedly forgotten or simply avoided for fear of needing to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. This is a fatal mistake that often has dangerous consequences.
Drinking around 1.5 liters of fluids a day provides protection. Mineral water, diluted fruit juices or vegetable juices, herbal and fruit teas, or soups are best. Water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as melons, tomatoes, and cucumbers, also help. An occasional glass of beer is also fine, unless there are medical reasons against it.
Older people should continue to drink even when they no longer feel thirsty. Regular fluid intake is important. Our tip: Drink a glass of water before each meal. It's also helpful to place a glass of water in every room. Creating a drinking schedule that establishes regular drinking times throughout the day has also proven very effective.
Reference: ljubaphoto
