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\tA pint of beer is better than water after a workout. Having a glass of beer is a better option than drinking water after exercising, says a Granada University study.<\/p>\n
\tThe study led by Professor Manuel Garzon, of Granada's medical faculty, made the discovery after conducting tests on 25 students over several months.<\/p>\n
\tIn the study the participants were asked to run on a treadmill under stifling temperatures of 40C, until they were close to exhaustion.<\/p>\n
\tResearchers measured their hydration levels, concentration ability and motor skills, after the students were on the point of giving up their physical exercise.<\/p>\n
\tHalf of the participants were then given two half pints of Spanish lager to drink, while the left were given water.<\/p>\n
\tBoth groups were then allowed to drink as much water as they wished to.<\/p>\n
\tGarzon said the rehydration effect in the students who were given beer was 'slightly better' than among those given only water.<\/p>\n
\tHe said that the carbon dioxide in beer helped quench the thirst more quickly, while beer's carbohydrates replaced calories lost during physical exertion.<\/p>\n
\tDr. James Betts, an expert in post-exercise rehydration at Bath University, said instead of being diuretic, beer helps in getting fluid inside the body.<\/p>\n
\t"People think of alcohol as being a diuretic, but if you are already hydrated, a small amount of beer could be a way of getting the fluid in," the Daily Mail quoted him, as saying.<\/p>\n
\tBased on the findings, the researchers have recommended moderate consumption of beer, i.e. 500ml a day for men or 250ml for women, as part of an athlete's diet. Try it.<\/p>\n