Investigation into water consumption and its influence on depression, memory problems and constipation in older persons

Objective: This study examines a possible relationship between plain water consumption, mild cognitive impairment, depression and constipation in a cohort of Greek-born Australians aged 65 and over. Design: A cross-sectional study using a semi-quantitative food frequency and lifestyle questionnaire. Participants: We recruited 150 elderly Greek migrant volunteers who were born on Greek Mediterranean islands and collected detailed diet and lifestyle data using an established protocol used in the Mediterranean Islands Study (MEDIS) in Greece. Measurements: Water intake from plain water, beverages and foods was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Depression and memory were assessed using the validated Geriatric Depression Scale – Short version. Results: Mean water intake from all sources for all participants was 2871 mL (p = 0.010), water derived from foods was 1048mL (p = 0.014), beverage intake other than plain water was 876mL (p < 0.001) and plain water consumption was low with a mean of 947mL (p = 0.001) per day. Those who reported as not depressed (GDS < 6) consumed 100 mL less total water from food and beverages than those who scored 6 or above and those who self-reported no constipation consumed nearly 300mL more water in foods than those who self-reported being constipated. Conclusion: Results suggest that habitual low consumption of plain water (< 1000mL/day) was not associated with constipation or self-reported mental-emotional disorders in this group. Water consumption from food was significantly higher in those with no constipation suggesting that consumption of water in food may be a significant factor in ensuring adequate water needs. Clinicians should consider water intake in food when assessing patient water intake.