Milk beats water: Researchers reveal surprising top thirst quencher

Water is widely regarded as the most effective way to quench thirst. However, scientific studies demonstrate that some products perform this task even better. This is certainly good news for those who are not particularly fond of consuming this colourless liquid.

Sometimes we feel an intense thirst, especially during hot, summer days. At such times, we often reach for various drinks such as coffee, tea, juices, or water. Some of us even choose beer. But have you ever wondered which of these drinks is the most effective at quenching thirst? As it turns out, water is not at the top of this list.

A group of researchers from St. Andrews University in Scotland decided to investigate body hydration. They examined various beverages to identify those that are most effective in quenching thirst. After some time, they published their findings, revealing the drink that performs best. To the surprise of many, it was not water. The winner of this ranking may astonish you. Would you have expected such a result?

According to scientists, these drinks are the most effective at quenching thirst:

1. Skim milk
2. Glucose-electrolyte solutions/liquids
3. Regular milk
4. Orange juice
5. Cola
6. Tea
7. Isotonic drinks
8. Still water
9. Carbonated water
10. Beer
11. Coffee

The finding that milk is the most effective at hydrating the body surprised many. It turns out that the key to this phenomenon lies in the ratios of nutrients contained in milk. Skim milk is rich in protein but contains little fat and sugars. These components are absorbed by our bodies, which make use of them, effectively helping to quench thirst.

So why did water only place 8th and 9th in the ranking? Let us recall what happens when we suddenly drink a large amount of water. After a few minutes, we must visit the restroom because our bladder is full. In practice, this means we expel water as quickly as we consume it. It is different in the case of milk — even if we eliminate the liquid, our body has already absorbed the necessary nutrients.