Photo: WBZ NewsRadio
QUINCY, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Your favorite caffeinated beverages may be drying you out during the summer months.
Americans drink 400 million cups of coffee daily. It has become a cultural staple for many who want to start the day with a boost or need it for the midday pickup. And you will rarely find a coffee lover who is shy about their caffeine habit.
"I love coffee. I drink coffee way too much," proclaimed one local resident.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 400mg of caffeine per day — that's about two to three 12-fluid-ounce cups of coffee — is the amount not generally associated with negative effects.
As the Bay State continues to grapple with record-breaking heat emergencies, doctors are reminding coffee drinkers that switching from hot to iced coffee isn't enough to battle the scorching temperatures.
Read More: Report: Two Cups Of Coffee A Day Contributes To Healthier Aging Trajectory
"I'm one of those weird people who drinks iced coffee all year round," said Lauren of Quincy.
Even if you only drink iced coffee, consuming more than the recommended amount of coffee can increase your risk of dehydration if you're relying solely on caffeinated beverages throughout the day.
Studies from the Cleveland Clinic show that coffee is a natural diuretic, which can increase your body's production of urine by helping your kidneys draw out extra salt and water. While the occasional cup of coffee itself doesn't dehydrate you, a caffeine overload can. Also, caffeine can raise your internal temperature, especially during the summer.
Essentially, while experts say you can drink hot or iced coffee during the summer, you should drink responsibly by alternating your caffeine intake with water.
WBZ NewsRadio’s Jim MacKay (@JimMacKayOnAir) reports.
