And does this mean you’re gonna wanna give up your cup of joe?
Some even say you should drink a glass of water before your morning coffee.
So, is it worth it?
Photo:Eating Well/Getty Images
We asked multiple dietitians for their take, and their answers may surprise you.
Caffeine is a known diuretic with its effects amplified in large doses.
Diuretics are commonly used to treat heart failure, hypertension and certain kidney diseases.
Although often said to be an energy booster, the caffeine in coffee doesnt exactly work as youd expect.
So, Does Coffee Dehydrate You?
Theres a lot of confusion about coffees effect on hydration.
Becausecaffeine acts as a diuretic, its thought that drinking coffee contributes to dehydration.
However, the diuretic effect of caffeine is mild, especially in those who have a tolerance to caffeine.
Research has shown that caffeine intake at recommended doses does not result in dehydration.
As a reference, 1 cup of regular coffee contains almost 100 mg of caffeine.
However, Callins says the increase in diuresis is short-term and often not to the point of causing dehydration.
A tolerance to caffeine builds up over time, which reduces the diuretic effects of caffeine.
Regularly turning to water or other decaffeinated beverages is essential for optimal hydration.
Additionally, the foods you eat can contribute to total water intake.
These include fruits, vegetables, soups and broths, smoothies and milk.
Does Coffee Count Toward Your Water Intake?
In short, yes!
Remember that coffee only contributes to hydration if caffeine doesnt exceed 500 mg daily.
Water is essential for optimal hydration and should be the primary beverage for healthy adults.
How Much Coffee Is Too Much?
Because coffee contains caffeine, you should notconsume it excessively.
Other beverages like tea andenergy drinkscan also contribute to this 400 mg limit.
Additionally, athletes may need to pay special attention to their total caffeine intake.
Finally, children and teens should limit or avoid caffeine completely.
Children under the age of 12 should avoid all caffeine, saysJenny Lo, M.S., RD.
Because of this, its essential to listen to your bodys cues.
Consider drinking water or other decaffeinated beverages in between your cups of coffee.
If you crave additional flavor in your water, try adding herbs or fresh fruit.
All of these can contribute to your daily hydration needs.
Looking for inspiration?
The Bottom Line
Theres no need to eliminate your daily coffee over concerns of it causing dehydration.
Instead, enjoy your coffee while sticking to the recommended daily limits.
DriveResearch.Coffee Facts & Statistics [2024 Report].
2024;21(1):2323919. doi:10.1080/15502783.2024.2323919
2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Chapter 1: Nutrition and Health Across the Lifespan.Caffeine.
Taylor K, Tripathi AK, Jones EB.Adult Dehydration.
StatPearls Publishing; 2022.
