As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that seltzers are not more hydrating than beer. In fact, there is no type of alcohol that can be considered hydrating. Let me explain why.
Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production and leads to more frequent trips to the bathroom. This is because alcohol inhibits the release of vasopressin, a hormone that helps regulate fluid balance in the body. When vasopressin is suppressed, the kidneys produce more urine, resulting in dehydration.
While it is true that some alcoholic beverages, like beer and seltzers, contain water as the main ingredient, this does not make them hydrating. The diuretic effect of alcohol outweighs any hydrating properties of the water content. In fact, the more alcohol you consume, the more dehydrated you become.
Now, let's compare seltzers and beer in terms of their hydrating effects. Both these beverages contain water, but they also contain alcohol. The alcohol content in beer is typically higher than in seltzers, so it can have a more pronounced diuretic effect. However, the exact alcohol content can vary greatly among different brands and styles of beer, as well as seltzers.
Additionally, it's important to note that not all seltzers are created equal. Some seltzers may have higher alcohol content than others, while some may contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners. These variations can further impact the diuretic effect and overall hydration levels.
In my personal experience, I have found that consuming beer in moderation and alongside ample water intake can help mitigate the dehydrating effects. However, it is still essential to remember that alcohol, in any form, is not a reliable source of hydration.
To summarize, seltzers are not more hydrating than beer. Neither of these alcoholic beverages can be considered hydrating due to their diuretic effects. It is crucial to drink water alongside any alcoholic beverage to maintain proper hydration levels.