Water Isn't the Best Hydrator: Research Reveals Surprising Top Drinks

Contrary to popular belief, water may not be the ultimate champion of hydration. New research from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland indicates that certain other beverages can hydrate the body more effectively.

Scientists compared the body's response to various drinks and discovered that those containing a modest amount of sugar, fat, or protein hydrate even better than plain water. According to lead researcher Prof. Ronald Maughan, one key factor is the volume consumed at once; larger amounts lead to faster stomach emptying and quicker entry into the bloodstream. However, the composition of the drink also plays a crucial role. Nutrients in beverages help to spread out the hydration process over a longer period.

The study found that milk, particularly skimmed or whole milk, topped the list for hydration. Its effectiveness is attributed to its sugar (lactose), protein, and fat content, all of which slow down stomach emptying. Milk also contains sodium, which helps the body retain water and reduces urine production, similar to rehydration fluids with electrolytes.

Other drinks that outperformed water in hydration included rehydration fluids, orange juice, and even tea. Conversely, coffee ranked lowest on the list. While these findings highlight the benefits of certain drinks for hydration, dietitians advise caution regarding sugar content. They emphasize that while sugary drinks might stay in the stomach longer, excessive sugar intake poses significant health risks, including diabetes and obesity.

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This study tells us a lot of what we already knew: electrolytes – like sodium and potassium – contribute to better hydration, while calories in drinks lead to slower stomach emptying, and thus slower urine output.