As the summer heat approaches, we ask the big guestions: Is milk better to hydrate with than water?
I’m asking because I absolutely love cold milk (being a child of the ’50s, I suppose). But I’ve always felt guilty about it. Maybe I don’t have to:
Milk was found to be even more hydrating than plain water because it contains the sugar lactose, some protein and some fat, all of which help to slow the emptying of fluid from the stomach and keep hydration happening over a longer period.
Milk also has sodium, which acts like a sponge and holds onto water in the body and results in less urine produced
Then again, the pro-milk studies areb’t great. As a metastudy urges:
Most studies that assessed milk lacked clear distinction between milk type (flavored vs. unflavored) or fat percentage, making it difficult to understand the impact of milk consumption. The relationship between milk intake and anthropometric-related outcomes were mixed within and across studies. Water was consistently associated with better hydration, while 100% juice and flavored milk intake was associated with more desirable dietary patterns or nutrients that children are currently not consuming adequate amounts of. The implications of these findings were discussed in the context of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), while considering the impact of issues such as contaminated water and lactose intolerance. This review suggests that water may be an optimal default beverage option in the NSLP to promote hydration and accommodate beverage preferences for those with lactose intolerance.
Maybe the best hydration is what you will actually hydrate with?