Milk tops water in new hydration study

Another heatwave is expected at the beginning of September, which could potentially be the last of the summer. In light of this, the best ways to stay hydrated are worth considering. Some people maintain that drinking water regularly is essential on hot days. However, scientists from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland have challenged this belief.

The composition of the beverage plays a very significant role in adequate hydration. Experts have shown that milk is more effective than water because it contains lactose, protein, and fat, which help slow gastric emptying and extend the hydration period.

Milk is also rich in sodium, which acts like a sponge, retaining water in the body and reducing the excreted urine.

Research has shown that skimmed milk is the most effective hydrating beverage. Scientists from the University of St. Andrews placed it at the top of their ranking. Apart from milk, oral rehydration solutions and full-fat milk also made it to the podium.

The position of water in the ranking may be surprising. Still water only took the tenth position, and sparkling water – the eleventh.

This shows that water is not the best choice for hydration. It even loses to beverages such as Coca-Cola, orange juice, or tea.

However, some beverages hydrate the body worse than water, for example, beer or coffee.                        

1. Skimmed milk
2. Oral rehydration solutions
3. Full-fat milk
4. Orange juice
5. Coca-Cola
6. Diet cola
7. Iced tea
8. Tea
9. Sports isotonic drink
10. Still water
11. Sparkling water
12. Beer
13. Coffee