Does Coffee Dehydrate You?
It’s a common belief that coffee causes dehydration, which is one reason some people suggest drinking water before coffee. But research does not support that idea.
Scientific studies show that coffee contributes to fluid balance and does not lead to dehydration when consumed in moderation.
Coffee is composed of more than 95% water. Studies comparing coffee drinkers to those consuming equal amounts of water found no significant differences in hydration status.
NPR reports similar findings. While caffeine can act as a mild diuretic in large amounts, caffeinated drinks consumed in moderation provide the same hydration as non-caffeinated drinks.
In regular coffee drinkers, the fluid in coffee offsets its mild diuretic effect.
What About Alertness and Cortisol?
Some influencers also claim drinking coffee immediately after waking spikes cortisol and disrupts energy levels.
Cortisol naturally rises within 30 to 45 minutes of waking, and caffeine can stimulate cortisol production. However, in people who regularly drink coffee, the body adapts without evidence of lasting harm.
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