If you're just settling in for your first (or second, or third) cup of coffee, you might want to think again.
Especially on days like today, when the weather is going to be scorching.
That's because of the way coffee impacts your body.
Coffee can actually speed up dehydration.
That morning cup of coffee can lead to a major slow-down when the heat takes hold.
And it doesn't take much to dehydrate in this Oklahoma heat.
"You can be sitting in an office all day long and still lose moisture that way."
The first sign, blurry vision, then the headaches.
To prevent that, Doctor Laura Glenn says know when to cut yourself off.
"Generally stop around 10 a.m.," says Dr. Glenn.
Then kick hydration into high gear.
Look for drinks packed with electrolytes, but also check the label for sugar.
"Sports drinks are usually too sugary or have the chemicals that I don't like or the artificial colorings," says Dr. Glenn.
Tote water everywhere.
And if the taste is too dull, give it a boost, by adding a splash of real fruit juice or kombucha.
Also, sparking water is just as hydrating.
Dr. Gleen says, "It's more interesting, it tastes better, the mouth feels good. I do plain flat water too, but in the summer I feel like, I want a treat"
If you still need caffeine after lunch, opt for an iced tea and add electrolytes.
"like that, you pop it into the water and it starts dissolving almost immediately," says Dr. Gleen.
And if you know you're going to be doing something strenuous in the heat, don't sweat it.
To take your hydration to the next level, get an IV treatment, either ahead of time or for recovery.
Experts say occasional coffee drinkers will be just fine during the heat.
But if you're one of those who drinks coffee all day long, and plan to be outside, you should definitely find another way to hydrate.
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