A recent article published on Apple News has revealed a surprising twist in the fight to stay hydrated during the UK’s latest heatwave: milk may actually be more hydrating than water (or beer).

With temperatures expected to hit the mid-30s in places this weekend (no complaints here!), and health alerts issued across much of the country, hydration should be top of mind for us all, from families at home to hospitality teams serving customers in the sun.
According to Dr Natasha Fernando, Medical Director at Medichecks, milk’s unique combination of sugar, protein, fat and sodium helps the body retain fluids for longer. “You don’t have to stick to water alone to boost hydration levels,” she explains in the article. “Milk also contains sodium, which allows your body to hold onto water for longer.”
This timely insight comes just as thousands are about to head off to Glastonbury, and parks and beaches across the UK. As the heat rises, milk, whether it’s dairy or plant-based, is quietly becoming one of the smartest ways to stay hydrated.
Why this matters for Freshways customers
Whether you run a corner shop, café, or hospitality venue, it’s a great time to:
- Showcase milk as a smart summer choice. Not everyone knows about its hydration benefits – now’s the time to tell them. Chalkboard signs, fridge displays or menu mentions can help.
- Offer both dairy and plant-based options. Dr Fernando highlights that soya milk also helps with hydration. We’ve got you covered, with Freshways delivering both traditional and plant-based lines.
- Keep chilled drinks front and centre. Milkshakes, iced lattes, or a simple cold glass of milk – they’re more appealing than ever in this heat.
For everyday drinkers
If you’re not in the trade but looking for ways to stay cool, don’t overlook a cold glass of milk. It keeps you hydrated longer than water, and gives you a boost of protein, calcium, and essential electrolytes… And we think it tastes great.
The NHS has also published a list of dehydration symptoms to watch out for, from tiredness and dry mouth to dizziness. Fluids like milk, and soya milk can genuinely help.
Stay cool. Stay stocked. Stay hydrated with Freshways.
For more on the original article, read it here on Apple News.