Medieval Hydration: How People Stayed Hydrated in the Middle Ages

Water Sources in the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, people relied on the best available water sources to stay hydrated. These sources included rivers, wells, and collected rainwater. While these might seem primitive by today’s standards, they were the lifelines for medieval communities. Wells were particularly common, and the Romans had already developed aqueducts, providing a form of plumbing that, while not modern, was functional and essential for daily life.

Despite these sources, the quality of water varied significantly. Rivers could be contaminated, and wells were not immune to pollution. Collecting rainwater was often the safest option, but it was not always available. As a result, people in the Middle Ages had to develop a strong tolerance for bacteria, much like those in many current third-world countries.

Health Challenges and Dehydration

Poor sanitary conditions and untreated illnesses were rampant in the Middle Ages, leading to a range of health problems, including dehydration. The lack of modern medical knowledge and facilities meant that even minor ailments could become severe. Dehydration was a common issue, exacerbated by the limited availability of clean water.

Interestingly, the process of making teas, beers, wines, and ciders made these drinks safer than water. Boiling water to make these beverages killed harmful bacteria, making them a safer option for hydration. This practice was not only a matter of preference but a necessity for survival.

Innovative Hydration Methods

Medieval people were resourceful when it came to hydration. Boiling various ingredients into drinks was common. Roots, flower heads, leaves, tree bark, and even acorns were used to create beverages. Beef tea, made by boiling strips of dried meat, was a common and nutritious drink.

Liquid intake also came from food. People didn’t typically discard vitamin-infused water from boiled vegetables. Many meals were cooked in pots, and drinking broth was common. This broth is what we now call stock, and it was a significant source of hydration. Porridge and stewed fruit also provided additional liquid content in diets.

Travel and Hydration Laws

Travelers in the Middle Ages had specific needs for hydration. Pubs and coach houses were required by law to provide water to travelers. This law still exists in some places like the UK. Traveling routes for moving farm animals, known as droving, were planned around the availability of water and shelter. This ensured that both humans and animals had access to necessary hydration during long journeys.

Modern Misconceptions About Hydration

Today, there are many misconceptions about hydration. Over-hydration is possible and can be harmful. Trends to carry large water jugs have led to contests over who could drink the most water, which is not advisable. People should drink when they are thirsty, as the body knows how much water it needs.

The belief that one needs to drink 2-3 liters of water daily to be healthy is a myth, especially if one does not engage in manual labor or exercise heavily. This myth was propagated by people who sell water bottles. The body’s natural thirst mechanism is an effective system for regulating water intake.

Historical Hydration Practices

In historical times, drinking water was supplemented with other liquids like broth, porridge, and stewed fruit. The boiling of water for teas and other drinks helped to kill harmful bacteria, making these drinks safer than untreated water. Historical diets included more liquid-rich foods, reducing the need for separate water consumption.

Understanding how people in the Middle Ages stayed hydrated provides valuable insights into the evolution of hydration practices. It also highlights the importance of adapting to available resources and developing innovative solutions to meet basic needs.