A COLD beer at the end of a long hot day is set to become even more refreshing after researchers at a Queensland university improved the hydrating effects of the amber fluid.

While sipping a frosty ale when the temperature is scorching is an Australian tradition, the practice is often counter-productive as the alcohol content increases dehydration.

The consumption of alcohol while dehydrated is also known to increase drunkenness, leading to the possibility of risky behaviour and, of course, the dreaded hangover.

But nutrition researchers at Griffith University's Health Institute believe they've found the way to enjoy a beer and keep your fluid levels in check.

The institute manipulated the electrolyte levels of two commercial beers, one regular strength and one light, before giving them to people who had just been undertaking rigorous exercise.

And while the researchers don't recommend drinking beer after exercise, the study showed the altered light beer was a third more effective at hydrating a person than normal beer.

"This is definitely not a good idea, but what we've found is that many people who sweat a lot, especially tradesmen, knock off work and have a beer," associate professor Ben Desbrow said.

"But alcohol in a dehydrated body can have all sorts of repercussions, including decreased awareness of risk.

"So, if you're going to live in the real world, you can either spend your time telling people what they shouldn't do, or you can work on ways of reducing the danger of some of these socialised activities."