A randomized trial to assess beverage hydration index in healthy older adults
Clarke MM, Stanhewicz AE, Wolf ST, Cheuvront SN, Kenefick RW, Kenney WL
Published in Am J Clin Nutr, Vol. 109 (6), pp. 1640-1647
Methodology
Randomised crossover in 12 young (mean 23 years) and 12 older (mean 67 years) adults. On five visits each drank 1 L of water or one of four commercial drinks with 20, 30, 45 or 60 mmol/L sodium (glucose- or amino-acid-based); blood and urine were sampled over 4 hours.
Key Findings
In young adults BHI rose with sodium content; the 60 mmol/L drink had the highest BHI (1.24 vs 1.00 for water, P = 0.01). In older adults the 30 mmol/L amino-acid drink had the highest BHI (1.20, P < 0.01), and the 60 mmol/L drink was still changing beyond 2 hours.
Conclusions
Drink sodium progressively increased fluid retention in young adults regardless of glucose or amino acids; older adults excrete urine more slowly, so a 4-hour index may suit them better.
Limitations
Small groups (12 per age group), healthy and hydrated at baseline, single dose of commercial products.
Supplements Studied
Beverage Na+ content progressively increased BHI in young adults
Outcomes Measured
Beverage Na+ content progressively increased BHI in young adults
Study Details
Access Study
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.