"Milk can actually be a very hydrating beverage option, more so than just plain water, thanks to its electrolyte content," confirms registered dietitian nutritionist Sarah Schlichter, MPH, RDN.
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.
To meet your fluid needs throughout the day, choose water most often. Remember that other fluids like milk, coffee, tea and juice also count towards your daily fluid intake. Try to avoid soft drinks and limit drinks with caffeine to 3 cups per day.
Milk Contains Fluid
Milk is a natural source of fluid. Specifically, milk contains about 87% water, making it a natural choice for a hydrating drink.
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.
However, if you're sitting there thinking you're doing your best by chugging bottles of water throughout your flight, some scientists have news for you: Water isn't the most hydrating drink after all. It turns out that honor goes to milk.
In the United-States, the national dietary guidelines recommend that adults should drink three cups or 732 mL/d of milk [1].
In addition, beverages such as milk, juice and herbal teas are composed mostly of water. Even caffeinated drinks — such as coffee and soda — can contribute to your daily water intake.
Juice, smoothies, iced coffee, ice tea, protein shakes, milk, and other drinks can be excellent alternatives to water.
The fastest way to cure dehydration is to drink fluids, particularly those that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions. People unable to drink properly due to medical conditions may require IV hydration for faster results.
Researchers attributed milk's beneficial hydration effect to the electrolytes sodium and potassium, which are naturally found in milk. According to another study, it was found that drinking fat-free milk after exercise also replenishes lost electrolytes and rehydrates better than a sports drink or water.
You might have an electrolyte imbalance: Electrolyte imbalances are one of the most common reasons you might feel dehydrated even after drinking tons of water: “Sometimes if we drink a lot of water but we don't take in enough fruits and vegetables, our electrolytes—sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, etc.
Water is the ideal hydration choice because it moves quickly though your digestive system and into your tissues. Stay hydrated by sipping small amounts of water throughout the day; avoid chugging down fluids right before exercising to avoid stomach discomfort and bloating.
Symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance vary depending on the severity and electrolyte type, including weakness and muscle spasms. A blood test called an electrolyte panel checks levels.
Magnesium is one of the body's primary sources of electrolytes, and this means that a mix of magnesium citrate powder and water can create a truly refreshing drink. You can also obtain natural electrolytes from a variety of fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, kale, avocados, coconut, lemons, and bananas.
There are several studies that suggest that drinking milk every day can cut down the risk of developing chronic diseases. All you need to do is consume it in moderation. A glass of milk in a day is an ideal choice. In light of the study, it is for the best to avoid drinking more than 2 glasses of milk in a day.
Milk is acceptable as part of your fluid intake. As are other non-alcohol, non-caffeine liquids. But it is not an adequate total substitute for water itself. Sodium, fat and sugar content of other drinks must be taken into account for one thing.
If you drink 8 oz. of water , it will usually be in your bladder within 20 minutes, so maybe a good idea to plan your void, if your bladder does not warn you. Also there is no health benefit to large volumes of water.
Watermelon. If the name—and telltale juiciness—of this fruit gives it away. Beyond being loaded with immune-boosting vitamin C and plant compounds, refreshing pink watermelon is often considered to be one of the most hydrating fruits, containing up to 91 percent water.
The answer is yes, coffee does count toward your daily water intake. However, drinking huge amounts of caffeine can be dehydrating. That's because it may increase urination that can result in a higher risk of dehydration. While coffee is hydrating, it lacks electrolytes our body needs for complete hydration.