The Hydration Dilemma - Finding the Right Balance for CHF

The bad news: it’s estimated that Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) affects about 5.7 million Americans and is, in fact, the number one cause of hospitalization among people over 65 years. While a host of lifestyle changes can be incorporated to help manage your symptoms, those with moderate to severe CHF also have to monitor their water intake levels. 

The good news: it’s now easier than ever to do that with smart water bottles. But first let’s dive into why proper hydration matters so much for people suffering from CHF.

Congestive heart failure and hydration - A double-edged sword

The relationship between CHF and hydration is complex and requires an in-depth understanding and consistent monitoring. Overhydration and dehydration can both exacerbate CHF symptoms. Healthcare providers typically advise patients with moderate to severe CHF to limit fluid intake to 1.5-2 liters daily. Excess water intake increases the load on the heart and can lead to pulmonary congestion, breathing issues, and swelling. Dehydration, on the other hand, can lead to lower blood volume and worsen fluid retention over time.

Symptoms of overhydration can include swelling, rapid weight gain, and shortness of breath. At the same time, a lack of sufficient fluids can result in dehydration, including fatigue, dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth, rapid heart rate, lethargy, and muscle weakness.

This article will provide practical tips and tricks for those looking to educate themselves on hydration while dealing with CHF.

How can a smart water bottle help you meet your hydration goals?

Since dehydration and overhydration can lead to serious consequences for individuals with CHF, tracking the amount of liquids consumed is essential. Before deciding on a hydration goal, it's best to talk to your physician, who will consider your medical history and other contributing factors. Smart water bottles like HidrateSpark eliminate the guesswork and help those with CHF meet their goals.

Customize your hydration goals - HidrateSpark allows you to set goals that best suit your health and work out a hydration schedule that will help you achieve those goals.
Track water and fluid intake - The HidrateSpark Smart Water Bottles are equipped with SipSense technology, allowing you to track the amount of water and other liquids you consume. Your fluid intake data is available on the app, so keeping track of your progress is convenient.
Timely reminders - Set regular notifications so that you are on track to meeting your hydration goals. This can help you manage your CHF symptoms much better.

Ways to limit water intake

These tips will help you manage your thirst levels so that the amount of fluids consumed falls in the range prescribed by your physician.

Sip on water and other healthy fluids slowly so that your thirst is quenched 
Rinse your mouth with water so that you feel hydrated
Use lip balm to prevent your lips from drying out
Keep your house temperature at a nominal temperature and use a humidifier at home

Foods to avoid or restrict in case of moderate or severe CHF

In addition to medication and incorporating regular exercise, you can manage your CHF by making smart food choices.

Sodium - Consuming sodium can increase thirst and lead to fluid build-up. Your physician might put you on a low-sodium diet, typically 1,500 to 2,000 milligrams daily, which will help manage your symptoms. Processed food, restaurant meals, and carbonated beverages are normally very high in sodium, so it's best to opt for well-balanced, home-cooked meals.
Alcohol - Depending on the medications you are consuming, your doctor might recommend you to reduce your alcohol intake or even completely stop it. Alcohol is known to increase blood pressure and worsen heart function.
Caffeine - Excessive caffeine pushes up the heart rate and increases the risk of irregular heartbeat.
High-sugar foods—Breakfast cereals, energy drinks, and desserts are high in simple sugars, which can lead to weight gain, increase cardiovascular risks, and spike blood sugar levels.

Take back control of your life and health with the easy-to-use HidrateSpark range of smart water bottles. Find out why HidrateSpark is considered the most advanced hydration system, and pick the color that makes you smile!