Drinking tea can be as hydrating as water

Tea can be as good as water to keep you hydrated, a study has found.

"If you fancy a cup of tea on a hot summer's day, have it. A cup of tea is going to give you the same hydration as a glass of water," dailymail.co.uk quoted dietician Carrie Ruxton as saying.

During the study, Ruxton asked 21 men to drink mugs of tea over a 12-hour period, or a similar amount of plain, warm water. Then tea-drinkers were given water and vice versa.

The findings revealed that men did not pass any more water when drinking tea - and may even have passed slightly less. There was also little difference in levels of sodium and other vital salts.

"It's a common misconception that drinking tea can increase the risk of dehydration because of the caffeine content. But this new study proves that there is absolutely no truth behind the theory," Ruxton added.

"Drinking moderate amounts of tea - four mugs a day - offered the same excellent hydration qualities as plain water. In addition, urine volume was similar after tea or water, confirming that we do not urinate more after drinking tea.

"Not only is a mug of tea refreshing and delicious, it can be an important part of maintaining proper hydration.," Ruxton added.

Catherine Hood of the Tea Advisory Panel, which funded the research, said: "Tea drinkers can be reassured that their favourite cuppa can count towards their fluid intake without the risk of dehydration."

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