Is BEER the key to staying hydrated during the heatwave?

With temperatures set to hit record-breaking highs of more than 40C today across the UK, we’re all looking for ways to stay hydrated and, surprisingly, a pint of beer could be the answer.

While drinking alcohol Usually considered a no-go in the heat due to its dehydrating effects, experts have found that a beer after work might actually help.

Reacting to a viral discussion about Twitter How to beat the heat, said Dr. Stuart Galloway of the University of Stirling told Femail that because beer has some electrolytes and a high water content it can be useful for hydration.

However, he added that any beneficial effects are likely to be lost if you drink more than two pints.

We’re all looking for ways to stay hydrated and surprisingly, a pint of beer could be the answer given its high water content (stock image)

The discussion was moderated by Dr. Ellie Mackin Roberts, an Australian living in England, when she shared her 10-step plan to combat dehydration during a heatwave Twitter.

‘If you’re dehydrated (and an adult and able to), drink half a pint of beer (non-alcoholic too!) and then go straight to water (or a sports drink or liquor if you don’t like water),’ She wrote.

Of course, the thread filled with comments from people asking why she recommended drinking beer, since alcohol is known to have diuretic effects.

However, beer contains electrolytes, sugar and salt, all of which help the body absorb and store fluid rather than pass it directly through you.

Granted, other beverages like sports drinks contain all of this, too.

But if you only have one can of lager in the fridge, a small amount of beer followed by lots of water might be best for you.

dr Stuart Galloway, hydration expert at Aqua Pura, confirmed to Femail that beer can count as part of your daily fluid intake.

“With the UK in the middle of a heatwave, it’s important for people to ensure they stay hydrated and replenish their fluid levels to avoid unwanted health problems,” he said

“Beer has a relatively high water content and contains some electrolytes. So if a small amount is consumed as part of your daily fluid intake, along with non-alcoholic beverages like water, beer can be part of a plan to keep you hydrated during the heat wave.

“However, you should be aware that alcoholic beverages will lead to dehydration if you drink more than a serving or two.

“With beer in particular, drinking more than two pints is most likely having a negative impact on your fluid status.”

He explains that the same rule applies to coffee and tea as well.

He explained: “A similar situation occurs with caffeinated drinks, for example a black coffee is mostly boiling water, so that’s part of your daily water intake.

“The dehydrating effects of caffeine kick in after about a liter of regular coffee. Until then, it can be classified as part of your daily water intake.

“The best, healthiest way to ensure you’re meeting your water needs in hot weather is by drinking still or carbonated water.”