Nurse Esther Gómez said that beer does not hydrate the body and that water remains the reference beverage for hydration [1].
This warning addresses common misconceptions regarding alcohol consumption during hot weather or after physical activity. Relying on alcoholic beverages for fluid intake can lead to dehydration and other health risks associated with excessive alcohol use [2].
Gómez shared these insights during an appearance on the television program Zapeando, which is broadcast by La Sexta in Spain [1]. The segment, published on Aug. 18, 2026, aimed to raise public awareness about the dangers of abusing alcohol under the guise of staying hydrated [2].
During the broadcast, the nurse said that while people may believe beer serves as a refreshing alternative to water, it does not function as a hydrating agent [1]. She specifically noted that "the reference drink continues to be water" [2].
The discussion focused on the physiological impact of alcohol, which can act as a diuretic. This process encourages the body to remove fluids from the blood through the renal system—often leading to a net loss of water rather than a gain [2].
Gómez urged the public to prioritize water to ensure proper bodily function [1]. She said, "Beer does not hydrate" [2].
The program's reach across Atresplayer and YouTube suggests a broader effort to combat health myths in the Spanish media landscape [1]. By utilizing a medical professional, the show highlighted the necessity of evidence-based choices when managing fluid intake [2].
“"The reference drink continues to be water."”
This guidance reinforces a fundamental medical consensus that alcohol's diuretic properties counteract its water content. By debunking the myth that beer is a viable hydration tool, health professionals aim to reduce the incidence of alcohol-induced dehydration, particularly during summer months when fluid replacement is critical for survival and organ function.
