Milk is more hydrating than water For example, 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 is about 90 percent water by weight, according to data from the USDA, which means you'll be getting plenty of hydration when enjoying a glass. And unlike water, cow's milk also contains valuable nutrients your body needs, including protein and vitamins A and D.
Research shows that milk is one of the best beverages for hydration, even better than water or sports drinks. Researchers credit milk's natural electrolytes, carbohydrates, and protein for its effectiveness.
Skim milk came in first followed by "oral rehydration" drinks like Pedialyte. Next came full-fat milk, orange juice, soda, diet soda, cold tea, tea, sports drinks, still water, sparkling water, lager, and finally, coffee.
The researchers found that while water — both still and sparkling — does a pretty good job of quickly hydrating the body, beverages with a little bit of sugar, fat or protein do an even better job of keeping us hydrated for longer.
The fastest way to hydrate is with an oral rehydration solution. These products are packed with electrolytes which are minerals found in your body that balance fluid levels and maintain optimal hydration. While you can hydrate fast with regular water, focus on electrolytes.
Best Overall: Gatorade
The levels of electrolytes (sodium and potassium) are moderate and sensible with 160 mg of sodium and 45mg of potassium per 12 fluid ounce serving. You can also find Gatorade varieties with higher sodium, zero sugar or no calories depending on your needs.
Good for skin: Cold milk is packed with electrolytes that can help your body combat dehydration. It will keep your body hydrated and skin glowing. The best time to drink cold milk is early in the morning.
Fat-free and full-fat milk rank higher for hydration than other beverages like water and sports drinks, according to a study. Researchers attributed milk's beneficial hydration effect to the electrolytes sodium and potassium, which are naturally found in milk.
Cold milk is a great beverage to keep your body hydrated. Cold milk is packed with electrolytes that can help your body combat dehydration.
Water straight from the tap has been stripped of its naturally occurring minerals and electrolytes. This imbalance in electrolytes can be a reason you are still feeling thirsty after drinking water. Staying properly hydrated is more than just drinking water. You should also be considering what's in your water.
Cow's milk is naturally rich in electrolytes, including calcium, sodium, and potassium. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS) states that 1 cup of regular whole cow's milk provides: 300 milligrams (mg) of calcium. 92.7 mg of sodium.
Drinking too much electrolyte water causes an excess of potassium, resulting in muscle weakness and abnormal heart rhythms. Rather drink a combination; hydrate with normal water before your workout, and drink electrolyte water during and after.
Milk has a similar electrolyte content and carbohydrate concentration to commercial sports drinks. The evidence mostly suggests that it is more effective at rehydrating people after vigorous exercise than well-known recovery beverages.
In general, however, it usually takes about two hours for your body to rehydrate fully after drinking a significant amount of water. As for how you should rehydrate, water is the best choice. Sports drinks, such as Gatorade, can be helpful for athletes who need to replenish electrolytes.
Use an oral rehydration solution (ORS)
In the 1960s, physiologists found that glucose (or sugar) helps increase the body's absorption of water and sodium. This is known as the “sodium-glucose cotransport system.” In 1964, this type of salt-sugar solution was successfully used to treat patients with cholera.