Rehydrate children with milk than water

Researchers at McMaster University believe that milk is a healthier option than sports drinks or water itself to rehydrate active kids who are dehydrated.

Study principal Investigator and research director of the Child Health and Exercise Medicine Program at McMaster, Brian Timmons, says that this is imperative during summers as “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 unlike other drinks, milk has the proteins required for muscle development and growth, helps in better fluid retention, and replenishes sodium lost in sweat.

The study comprised children between the ages of 8-10 years who had to exercise in a climate chamber, following which they were given a drink and were measured for hydration.

Assistant professor of pediatrics at Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Timmons, said that adults and active children do not consume sufficient fluids to keep themselves hydrated during exercise. Hence, they are most likely to commence their next exercise session with a “hydration disadvantage.”

Timmons added that dehydration decreases performance by around 15% clubbed with a higher heart rate, reduced ability to continue, and increased core temperature. Severe dehydration may even lead to a higher risk of heat stroke.