Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to trauma, infection, or irritation. While short-term inflammation helps the body recover, chronic inflammation is associated with diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or obesity. Inflammatory indicators such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), or tumor-alpha necrotic factor (TNF-α) increase when the body is inflamed.
Dehydration and inflammatory reaction
Even mild dehydration can cause physiological changes: increased vasopressin stress hormone, changes in blood vessel function and inflammation signals. Dr. Anita C. Chandrasekaran - a specialist in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, USA, explained: "Dehydration puts the body under physiological pressure, thereby increasing temporary inflammation signals. Hydrating helps restore balance but does not directly reduce inflammation levels.
A cross-sectional study on older adults showed that just drinking more water does not consistently reduce CRP or other inflammatory indicators. Even drinking too much water in a short period of time can lead to hyponatremia, which is dangerous for health.
When water is really important
Hydration is especially necessary when the body is severely dehydrated: fever, vomiting, diarrhea, high-intensity exercise or in high-temperature environments, especially for the elderly. Hydration helps restore blood volume, supports kidney function and reduces stress hormones, thereby stabilizing overall physiology.
However, for chronic inflammation, just drinking water is not enough. Evidence-based strategies include: regular exercise, getting enough sleep, weight control, a diet rich in vegetables, fiber, omega-3s, and medical treatment when needed.
Recommended daily water intake: about 11.5 cups for women and 15.5 cups for men, depending on activity, climate, body size and health condition. A simple sign to recognize a watery body is light yellow urine.
