Drinking your daily quota of water seems simple, until you realize that tea, coffee and certain infusions could trick our body. So, should we really include them in the recommended 1.5 L? A naturopath warns: if these drinks are based on water, they do not guarantee good hydration. Worse, some accelerate the elimination of water in the body, canceling their apparent benefits.
Why coffee and tea don’t really matter
Coffee is the first accused. Its caffeine, with known diuretic effects, stimulates the kidneys and promotes the elimination of water instead of retaining it. Tea acts more gently but remains a stimulant. It can also limit the absorption of essential nutrients such as iron or certain vitamins.
Naturopath Julia Monnier confirms: “Certainly the basis of coffee, tea and herbal teas is water, but consumed in large quantities, they do not hydrate the body and even cause the opposite effect.“.
Which hot drink to choose without making a mistake
Not all herbal teas are recommended either. Some, particularly “detox” ones, contain draining plants which promote the elimination of liquids. Julia Monnier qualifies, however: “If you plan to drink hot to hydrate yourself, only the Roiboos option can satisfy you“. Devoid of caffeine and theine, South African Roiboos becomes an interesting alternative.
To the essential question, the expert decides: “To the question ‘what should you drink to really hydrate yourself?’, the answer is clear: pure water. It is this, and this alone, which allows us to maintain a good water balance.“.
Simple tips to reach 1.5 L of water per day
If you tire of plain water, just a few steps can make it more appealing, like adding lemon, mint or cucumber. To easily reach 1.5 L on a daily basis, here are some effective reflexes:
- Keep a glass of water near the bed or in the bathroom to start the day;
- Always have a filled bottle with you;
- Set a goal of 6 to 8 glasses per day;
- Schedule reminders to remember to drink regularly;
- Increase your consumption in case of heat, sport or fever.