Study reveals unexpected top hydrators, with water off the podium

Many people believe that regularly drinking water is the key to maintaining optimal hydration. However, studies conducted at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland prove this belief to be wrong.

We can always reach for a glass of water, but researchers emphasize that plain water is not the drink that most effectively hydrates our bodies.

Scientists point out that still and sparkling water can hydrate our bodies quite effectively and quickly. However, beverages containing some sugar, fat, or protein do much better at this task.

Professor Ronald Maughan, the study's author, noted that one of the critical factors influencing hydration's effectiveness is the drink's volume. The more we drink, the faster it will be absorbed into our bloodstream, which can dilute bodily fluids and thus hydrate our bodies.

The second crucial factor concerns the nutritional composition of the drink. According to Medonet, milk is a better hydrator than plain water because it contains lactose, protein, and fat, which help slow down stomach emptying and thus maintain hydration for a longer time. Milk also contains sodium, which acts like a sponge and retains water in the body, resulting in less urine production.

A team of researchers from the University of St. Andrews analyzed 13 popular drinks to determine how effectively they hydrate the human body within four hours of consumption. Based on these studies, scientists prepared a ranking of drinks sorted by those that hydrate the body most effectively.

                        
1. Skim milk
2. Oral rehydration solutions (given to prevent dehydration after diarrhea)
3. Whole milk
4. Orange juice
5. Coca-Cola
6. Diet Coca-Cola
7. Cold tea
8. Hot tea
9. Isotonic drinks
10. Still water
11. Sparkling water
12. Light beer
13. Coffee