Staying Hydrated May Significantly Lower Risk of Heart Failure, New Study Finds

A recent study by Bar-Ilan University emphasizes the importance of hydration in preventing hypertension and heart failure. The study analyzed data from over 400,000 adults and found that sodium levels within the high-normal range are linked to increased cardiovascular risks.

Hydration can reduce the risk of hypertension and heart failure.

Are you drinking enough water? It is time to make sure that you are properly hydrated, not only for your skin, but also for your heart health. A new study suggests that staying well-hydrated can significantly lower the risk of developing hypertension and heart failure.

The study, conducted by researchers at Bar-Ilan University, reveals the protective effects of hydration on the heart. The findings were published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.

The Importance of Hydration for Overall Health

The human body is approximately 60% water. Therefore, hydration is crucial for overall health. The general recommendation is to drink eight 8-ounce (237-mL) glasses of water daily. Hydration offers numerous benefits, including improved brain function, enhanced digestive health, and assistance with weight management.

The Link Between Hydration and Heart Health

Staying hydrated is important for a healthy heart

Researchers have uncovered the profound impact of hydration on heart health. The study, which spanned over two decades, involved data from over 400,000 healthy adults. The findings challenge established beliefs regarding safe sodium levels in the blood. Researchers discovered that even high-normal sodium levels can indicate an increased risk of hypertension and heart failure.

The study revealed that individuals with higher sodium levels than the normal range were significantly more prone to developing hypertension and heart failure, two prevalent age-related chronic diseases globally.

Researchers analyzed electronic health records from 2003-2023 of more than 407,000 healthy adults. This analysis is one of the largest and longest-running to date, examining the relationship between hydration and cardiovascular health.

Key Findings of the Hydration Study

Hydration helps reduce long-term risk of heart failure

The study found that sodium levels of 140–142 mmol/L, while still within the normal range, were associated with a 13% higher risk of hypertension. When sodium levels exceeded 143 mmol/L, the risk of hypertension increased by 29%, and the risk of heart failure rose by 20%. Notably, nearly 60% of the healthy adult population had sodium levels within these risk-associated ranges.

Understanding Sodium Levels and Hydration

Standard blood tests measure sodium levels, with a range of 135–146 mmol/L typically considered normal. However, this study challenges that assumption, indicating a strong, long-term correlation between higher sodium levels and cardiovascular risk, even among individuals deemed otherwise healthy.

According to lead author Prof. Jonathan Rabinowitz from Bar-Ilan University, "Our findings suggest that hydration is a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of chronic disease prevention. A simple blood test could identify individuals who could benefit from basic lifestyle changes, such as increasing water intake, which can lower sodium levels."

Rabinowitz further emphasized that "hydration is frequently neglected in chronic disease prevention. This study provides compelling evidence that maintaining adequate hydration can help reduce the long-term risk of serious conditions like hypertension and heart failure."