Drinking water, coffee, and tea is linked to greater longevity, study shows.

Staying hydrated is essential for the proper functioning of the body — and it's not just water that counts. A new study published in the British Journal of Nutrition shows that a balanced consumption of water, coffee, and tea is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes, especially cardiovascular disease. Researchers in China analyzed data from over 182,000 adults from the UK Biobank, a study that assesses the health conditions of half a million people. The authors concluded that the isolated consumption of coffee or tea is not as strongly associated with decreased mortality as their combined consumption. "With some reservations, this is an interesting study that reinforces the idea that these beverages can contribute to hydration," comments nutritionist Celso Cukier, from the Einstein Israelite Hospital.

One of the study's limitations is that the findings are observational, meaning they don't establish a cause-and-effect relationship. And since the results are based on participants' questionnaire responses, important details may have been left out, such as how the drinks were prepared.

However, within the context of balance, there is evidence that both coffee and tea, especially green tea, are allies of cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of some types of cancer, among other benefits.

In addition to featuring a rich blend of protective compounds, the duo helps hydrate the body. "Since our body is about 65% water, it's essential to replenish the losses that occur daily through urination, bowel movements, sweating, respiration, and other means," Cukier explains.

Vital reactions depend on the balance of fluids circulating throughout the body. When water loss exceeds water intake, various health problems occur. The synthesis of all substances takes place in an aqueous environment; furthermore, ensuring good hydration levels contributes to nutrient transport, thermoregulation, and renal, digestive, cardiovascular, and pulmonary functions.

“Epidemiological studies show that adequate hydration is associated with a lower incidence of chronic diseases, being a marker of health and longevity,” says nutritionist Valéria Machado, a collaborator in research in the Lipids, Atherosclerosis and Vascular Biology sector of the Cardiology department at the Federal University of São Paulo (Unifesp).

It's important to remember that water should always be the primary beverage, and ideally, you shouldn't wait until you're thirsty to take your first sip—the recommendation is to hydrate throughout the day. "I often joke that we're not a water reservoir, so we need to distribute it gradually," suggests Machado.

Although two liters a day is generally recommended, or between 30 and 35 ml per kilogram of body weight, it all depends on each person's profile and routine. An athlete, for example, requires a larger quantity because they tend to sweat more. "Remember that many foods contain water, especially fruits," Cukier points out. Just don't include sodas and other sugary products in the calculation. In fact, it's best not to add sugar to tea and coffee.

With the elderly, extra care must also be taken. This is because the thirst mechanism becomes less effective with age, so older people may not feel the need to replenish fluids. On the other hand, there are conditions, such as those of patients with kidney failure, who must control their intake, following medical recommendations.

Coffee and tea, allies of the arteries.

Considered one of the most popular beverages in the world, coffee has been thoroughly examined for its health benefits. Many of its attributes are related to caffeine: the substance has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the endothelium, the cellular tissue that lines blood vessels.

Coffee also offers polyphenols, such as chlorogenic acid, which also combat oxidative stress and protect the arteries. It also contains compounds involved in modulating blood glucose levels, hence the link between the beverage and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Regarding tea, studies mention those prepared with Camellia sinensis, the raw material for green, black, and white tea. Like coffee, the plant provides caffeine and phenolics. One of the highlights is epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG, a potent antioxidant with proven anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects.

It's worth reiterating that, even with so many benefits, excess can have negative impacts. Consumption should be balanced, and the benefits are linked to a healthy lifestyle—that is, one that includes physical activity, quality sleep, stress management, and other good habits.

Source: Einstein Agency

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