1. Coffee is brewed with water

Cold brew coffee is made by soaking the beans in water overnight. This prevents fluid loss. A coffee cup is 98% water. This means that only a small amount of the coffee is actually coffee.

Have you ever noticed how the local baristas prepare your iced Americanos? The baristas extract the espresso using pressurized water and then add ice cubes before pouring. Your iced coffee contains a lot of water.

2. There’s a lot of ice

Since ice cubes contain only water, they will increase your liquid intake. The 98% of water in coffee is included. You may not have noticed that about half of your iced Americano consists of ice cubes. This is to cool down the hot espresso.

If you are concerned about caffeine, a grande-sized caramel macchiato from Starbucks contains only 150 mg – less than half the FDA’s recommended 400 mg. If you don’t add an extra double espresso shot to your coffee, two grande-sized drinks are a good limit.

3. It’s mixed with milk

The myth that a latte, cappuccino or iced coffee causes dehydration is a falsehood. Milk is nutritious and contains vitamins and minerals such as calcium that support the body. A study found that milk-containing drinks are superior than water and carbohydrate electrolyte drinks in maintaining fluid balance four hours after consumption. Dairy-based drinks also have a higher hydration indices due to their mineral content.

4. The Diuretic effect is short-term

Diuretics, such as coffee and beer, are substances that encourage the production of urine. Diuretics can lead to frequent bathroom visits and dehydration.

Experts say that the diuretic effects of 300 mg caffeine – equivalent to three cups coffee – are mild and comparable to those of water. Cold brew coffee has little to no impact on fluid balance. It’s still good to drink water after drinking a cold brew, especially if your urine appears dark or bright.

5. You can count it towards your daily water intake

Experts recommend that men and women drink 11.5 ounces of fluids each day to replace the liquids they lose through sweating or breathing. It’s good to know that iced coffee can count towards your daily fluid intake, along with sodas which have no nutritional value but are still hydrating.

Caffeine has a minimal diuretic effect and does not affect hydration. As long as you stick to the recommended dose and don’t suffer from any health conditions, you should have no problems drinking your coffee over ice.

Iced coffee can cause dehydration

Research has shown that coffee can have many benefits. It can help improve your mood , lower your risk for depression, and keep you alert. You can’t ignore the downsides.

It is unlikely that a glass of iced lattes will dehydrate you. If you consume it more than 400 mg per day, or if you have one throughout the day, there can be several negative effects.

• Dizziness
• Palpitations
• Restlessness and shakiness
• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Dehydration

Moderation is the key to enjoying iced caffeine-containing beverages. Drinking more than you need can dehydrate your body.

The moderate consumption of iced coffee will not cause dehydration

It won’t make you dehydrated, so there’s no need to stop drinking your iced coffee or cold brew. It can actually be hydrating, as it is mostly water. Adding milk that’s rich in calcium and potassium will also make it more nutritious. It’s only unhealthy when you consume too much.

To avoid dehydration, limit your intake of caffeinated drinks to no more than two large glasses. Drinking ice coffee in moderation is a great way to enjoy this delicious treat.