Age-Proofing Your Brain – Water, 5

Has your brain been locked away from a daily supply of pure water? Keeping your brain well hydrated can help avoid shrinkage of brain tissue, a condition that has been linked with memory problems and Alzheimer’s. Dehydration increases the production of damaged molecules known as free radicals, which also have been associated with a higher risk of developing symptoms of dementia later on in life and can wreak havoc in many ways. In her article ‘Dehydration in the Elderly: A Short Review,’ Risa J. Lavizzo-Mourey pointed out that dehydration is the most common fluid and electrolyte problem among the elderly. The rate of aging and one’s level of water consumption appear to be directly related—dehydration can contribute to premature aging. Water is absolutely essential for avoiding dehydration and yet many are chronically dehydrated. One contributor may be that many drink water only when they are thirsty and by then the brain and body are likely already dehydrated. In addition, with advancing age, most people tend to lose some of their thirst sensations. With diminished thirst awareness they don’t even realize their brain and body need water. Drink for your life¾Water! (For more information see “Age-Proofing Your Brain” by Taylor and Briggs.)