Associations between hydration status, body composition, and sociodemographic and lifestyle factors among older adults in rural areas of Ecuador: a cross-sectional study
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Abstract
Introduction. Body hydration status and body composition in older adults in rural communities in Ecuador have been little studied. Sociodemographic factors, physical activity levels, fluid intake, and nutritional status may influence water compartments and body composition in this population. Therefore, this study examined the associations between sex, age, body composition, physical activity, fluid intake, and overall nutritional status with measures of hydration and body fat assessed using bioimpedance analysis (BIA) in older adults living in rural areas of Ecuador. Objective. To evaluate the association between body composition, sociodemographic factors, and lifestyle factors in older adults in rural areas of Ecuador. Methodology. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 316 older adults (≥65 years) from rural parishes in Ecuador (Sinincay, Ricaurte, and El Valle). Sociodemographic variables, physical activity levels, fluid intake, and nutritional status (MNA) were assessed. Body composition was analyzed using 8-electrode segmental bioimpedance analysis. Comparisons between sexes were performed using the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test, the chi-square test, and Spearman’s correlation with Bonferroni correction. Associations were determined using multivariable linear regressions stratified by sex. Results. The study included 316 older adults (68.7% women; mean age 74.3 years). Men had greater height, weight, muscle mass, lean mass, and body water (p<0.001), while women had a higher percentage of body fat (41.5% vs. 35.8%, p<0.001). Both sexes showed an increase in body fat percentage and a decrease in body water with age. Physical activity was positively associated with body water in men (p<0.05), but not in women. BMI was significantly associated with body fat percentage in both sexes (p<0.05). Body mass index did not differ between sexes, although the prevalence of being overweight exceeded 60% in the sample. Conclusion. Gender, age, BMI, and physical activity influence body composition and hydration in older adults living in rural Ecuador. Differences in body water regulation between genders and the relationship between physical activity and hydration in men suggest the need for gender-specific preventive interventions. Further longitudinal studies are needed in this population. General area of study: nursing. Specific areas of study: health and nutrition. Type of article: quantitative analytical.
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