Drinks named that can lead to dehydration

The opinion that any liquid quenches thirst is erroneous. Some beverages act as "hidden dehydrators," causing a net loss of moisture in the body. These include alcohol, coffee and tea, sweet sodas and packaged juices, caffeine stimulants (energy drinks), and medicinal-table or medicinal mineral waters.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to "Gazeta.Ru," alcohol takes the leading position in dehydration. Ethanol blocks the hormone vasopressin, which retains water, and the kidneys begin to work in "emergency release" mode, excreting more fluid than is consumed. Thirst after alcohol is a signal of a critical lack of moisture.

Sweet carbonated drinks and packaged juices take second place. The high concentration of sugar (10-12 g/100 ml) creates osmotic pressure, and the body extracts water from cells and intercellular space. Sugar metabolism requires more liquid than is contained in the drink, and artificial additives increase the load.

Caffeine stimulants, such as coffee and energy drinks, have a moderate diuretic effect. For a habitual consumer, it is almost imperceptible, but in large doses, the kidneys excrete water more actively. The risk is especially high in hot weather or during physical exertion.

Medicinal-table and medicinal mineral waters also do not replenish the water balance. The high concentration of minerals creates a load on the kidneys, forcing them to excrete excess salts along with water. Only table water with low mineralization is suitable for daily consumption.

According to the doctor, sensible hydration is based on drinking pure water. Mild herbal tea or water with a slice of lemon or cucumber is acceptable. If drinks from the "risk group" were consumed, they must be compensated with pure water: one glass of water for a cup of coffee, 1.5-2 glasses for a glass of wine. Moreover, the feeling of thirst is already a delayed signal from the body.