Milk trumps water: Surprising new hydration ranking revealed
In early September, we may face another heatwave —possibly the last of the summer. Therefore, it is worth checking what hydrates the best. Some people insist that on hot days, you should regularly reach for water. Scientists at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland have challenged these beliefs.
12:21 PM EDT, September 1, 2024
The drink's composition plays a significant role in effectively hydrating the body. Experts have proven that milk is more effective than water because it contains lactose, protein, and fat, which help slow down stomach emptying, extending 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 skim milk is the most effective hydrating drink. Scientists from the University of St. Andrews placed it at the top of their ranking. Besides milk, oral hydration solutions and whole milk also made it to the podium.
These drinks hydrate the best
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 drinks like Coca-Cola, orange juice, or tea.
However, some drinks hydrate the body worse than water, for example, beer or coffee.
- Skim milk
- Oral hydration solutions
- Whole milk
- Orange juice
- Cola
- Diet cola
- Iced tea
- Tea
- Isotonic sports drink
- Still water
- Sparkling water
- Beer
- Coffee
