Dehydration, or not having enough fluids in the body, is a serious and sometimes fatal condition. Staying properly hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like water or coffee is important for preventing dehydration. Mild dehydration can usually be treated with oral rehydration, although severe cases may require administration of intravenous fluids. Call 911 if you or your child have severe dehydration symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, lethargy or confusion.
Caffeine and Hydration
According to Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., it was once thought that coffee and other caffeinated drinks acted as diuretics -- substances that increase urination and contribute to dehydration -- but clinical research has demonstrated this notion to be false. In fact, according to Zeratsky, drinking moderate amounts of coffee or other caffeinated beverages will rehydrate you as well as water. Only very large caffeine doses of more than 500 to 600 mg -- the amount that's in about 5 to 7 cups of coffee -- produce diuretic effects, notes Zeratsky.
Amounts of Caffeine in Coffee and Other Foods
Although drinking normal amounts of coffee isn't likely to lead to dehydration, it's a good idea to keep track of your caffeine intake throughout the day if you suspect you might be approaching the 500 to 600 mg limit associated with diuretic effects and other side effects like restlessness and anxiety. In particular, you may want to watch your intake of energy drinks. While most 8-oz. coffee servings provide about 100 to 200 mg of caffeine, energy drinks may have as much as 280 mg of caffeine per serving. Teas and sodas are less significant caffeine sources, usually containing 50 mg or less.
Common Causes and Symptoms of Dehydration
Illnesses that cause vomiting and diarrhea are common causes of dehydration. Dehydration may also result from other forms of fluid loss, such as excessive perspiration, fever, or excessive urination caused by diabetes or by taking diuretic medications. Insufficient fluid intake may cause dehydration as well. Infants, children, the elderly and people with health problems are at a greater risk of dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration may include thirst, dry mouth and dark yellow urine. Severe cases can result in seizures, brain damage and death.
Preventing Dehydration
You can prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids such as water, coffee, tea, soda and other nonalcoholic drinks throughout the day. If you're already dehydrated or are rapidly losing fluids from strenuous exercise or sickness, a sports drink or oral rehydrating solution providing electrolyte minerals is the best beverage choice for you. Also, you should avoid coffee if you have vomiting or diarrhea because it may worsen your symptoms. A good way to tell whether your fluid intake is adequate is the color of your urine. Ideally, it should be clear or slightly yellow.
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