Turns out, drinking water alone isn’t the most effective way to stay hydrated

When it comes to hydration, drinking water always seems to be the obvious answer. We know how much water we need to drink per day, but is there an alternative that can bring more hydration to the body other than just water? A scientific study reveals this to us: among the various beverages analysed, milk – both whole and skimmed – was found to be among the most hydrating, even surpassing mineral water in some conditions. But how is this possible? The explanation is to be found in the nutritional composition of milk.

Milk or water: which hydrates more? A study changes the rules

A study from the University of St Andrews in Scotland, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, compared different beverages in terms of hydration by analysing fluid retention levels in the hours after drinking. Milk scored higher on the hydration index than drinking water. “Milk contains natural sugars, proteins and fats. These nutrients slow the emptying of the stomach, helping the body retain fluids longer,” the researchers explain.

Why does milk hydrate more than water?

Here’s what makes milk a great hydrating drink:

• High electrolyte content (such as sodium and potassium), which help the body retain fluids
• Presence of protein and carbohydrates, which slow digestion, prolonging the presence of water in the body
• Balanced osmolarity, which promotes water absorption by cells

When does drinking milk help to hydrate?

Although water always remains the most recommended drink under normal conditions, there are times when milk can be an even more effective choice, for example:

• After strenuous physical activity, replenish fluids and nutrients
• In children and the elderly, to promote more complete hydration
• In periods of mild dehydration, when fluids need to be better retained

Milk is therefore also a useful beverage for hydration, particularly in specific situations where retaining more fluid is important. It is certainly not a substitute for water, but it can be added to it intelligently if the need arises.

Beware if you are lactose intolerant

It should be remembered that not everyone can drink milk. Those who are lactose intolerant or have special digestive conditions should consult their doctor. Alternatively, some plant-based drinks (such as soy or oat milk) may offer a good compromise, but they do not achieve the levels of hydration that cow’s milk has.

This article first appeared on Vogue.it

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