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Milk is better at quenching children's thirst than water, claim scientists

Thirsty children shouldn't reach for water after P.E lessons... instead they should have a glass of milk, scientists say.

Researchers at McMaster's University said the white stuff was a more effective way at countering dehydration in active children than sports drinks or H20.

Thirsty children shouldn't reach for water after P.E lessons... instead they should have a glass of milk, scientists say.

Researchers at McMaster's University said the white stuff was a more effective way at countering dehydration in active children than sports drinks or H20.

Study leader Brian Timmons, said: 'Children become dehydrated during exercise, and it's important they get enough fluids, particularly before going into a second round of a game.

'Milk is better than either a sports drink or water because it is a source of high quality protein, carbohydrates, calcium and electrolytes.'

He added that milk replaces sodium lost in sweat and helps the body retain fluid better. 

The milk also provides protein, needed by children for muscle development and growth, not found in the other drinks.

The study of children aged 8 to 10 involved exercising in a climate chamber, then receiving a drink and being measured for hydration.

Assistant Professor Timmons, at the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, said active children and adults usually don't drink enough to stay hydrated during exercise. This means they often have a 'hydration disadvantage' when they start their next period of exercise.

He said that one per cent dehydration can cause up to a 15 per cent decrease in performance, with an increased heart rate, core temperature and less ability to keep going.

More significant dehydration comes with an increased risk of heat-related illness such as heat stroke

Read more at the Mail Online .