My friend and I are both active, fitness-minded individuals. We have a dispute over certain drinks and hydration. It's not a matter of who is right but I'm curious if you guys can give some insight.

Caffeinated beverages obviously have a dehydrating effect but what about Crystal Light (caffeine-free) packets such as lemonade, peace tea, etc? Does adding these flavors to your beverage decrease or cancel-out the hydrating effect of the water in which it is mixed?

Smells a bit fishy

even coffee, despite the caffine, hydrates you. the caffine just doesn't null out the water that's present.

its gonna vary from drink to drink. crystal light is full of fake sweetners and flavors...does that cause the body to use more water to flush that from the system, causing more dehydration than straight water??

I don't know the answer.

what I do know is that water is best, and other things should be done in sensible moderation. (e.g. the fattest teacher at my old high school was the one drinking 4 liters of diet coke a day...)

The best is just drink more on water only . It's all natural and good . No artificial flavors, negative effects or what

hello,just thought id add my two cents.
i like water ,and it is the best for you,but the taste gets old, so try to add a fresh squeezed lemon,or lime, or add orange blossom to your water or tea,makes it really taste great with no calories to worry about..good luck ,natural is always better.

Totaly agree with you mate...welcome to mens health

That's what I also suggested..water is always good for your health.

Thanks for your input guys.
I really appreciate the way you guys replied to my post.
Thank you..thanks a lot

winemakur, welcome!!!
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winemakur, I just forgot to welcome you. Welcome to MH board