COFFEE × HYDRATION
COFFEE × HYDRATION
Coffee x Hydration
To put it simply, coffee can contribute to hydration.
During hot seasons, one often hears that "coffee is not suitable for hydration," but most of these claims lack scientific basis.
Conversely, there are multiple studies and research papers suggesting that "coffee does contribute to hydration."
I will explain the key points based on the evidence.
Can dehydration occur due to the diuretic effect of caffeine?
It is sometimes said that coffee is not suitable for hydration because it contains caffeine, which has a diuretic effect and can lead to dehydration. This is a common argument against coffee for hydration, but research has shown no significant difference when comparing the intake of water alone versus caffeine-containing beverages (tracked in four groups).
While caffeine has a mild diuretic effect, it has been scientifically established that it does not have a strong enough impact to cause dehydration.
That being said, coffee contains a significantly higher number of chemical compounds compared to other beverages, and there are other components besides caffeine that promote diuresis. Individual sensitivities to these compounds also vary, so it is true that many people experience increased urination after drinking coffee.
However, even considering this, it is highly unlikely that anyone would become dehydrated due to coffee components unless they consumed an abnormally large amount at once.
If drinking coffee were to cause dehydration, then roasters and baristas, who likely consume more coffee than anyone else, would be suffering from dehydration daily.
The reality speaks for itself.
Is coffee suitable for hydration?
One study found that both coffee intake and water intake (control) did not affect body water content (intervention study on coffee drinkers).
In other words, when comparing water and coffee for the purpose of hydration, the conclusion was that there was almost no difference.
Coffee itself is 98-99% water. When you are dehydrated, it is certainly better to drink coffee than nothing at all, and there is no problem in drinking coffee in mid-summer.
Iced coffee on a hot day is exceptional. Let's enjoy it in moderation, so you don't accidentally drink too much because it's delicious.
-THE WORD COFFEE shares the latest information and recipes about coffee. We hope you will also check out our other articles.
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-Caffeine has many effects on the body other than its diuretic action. In moderation, it has positive effects, but excessive consumption can lead to overdose and adverse health effects. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of over-consuming caffeinated beverages, not just coffee.
-In normal daily life, coffee and tea adequately serve as hydration. However, during strenuous activities or exercise when there is significant fluid loss, it is advisable to consume appropriate beverages containing electrolytes, such as sports drinks, to quickly replenish essential substances like sodium and potassium along with water.
References (partial excerpts):
https://ilsijapan-org.prm-ssl.jp/ILSIJapan/BOOK/Newsletter/Water-1-NL_1006.pdf
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/kagakutoseibutsu/59/4/59_590401/_pdf
https://www.nestle.co.jp/sites/g/files/pydnoa331/files/asset-library/documents/nhw/interview7.pdf