Eli5 - Why Coffee Makes You Thirsty

Ah, the eternal quest for liquids! Our primitive instinct to have a drink is deeply ingrained in our DNA. It plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance within our bodies. When our brain detects changes in our blood signaling dehydration, it triggers the undeniable urge to replenish the lost liquid. The obvious choice would be a simple glass of water, but let's face it - plain water isn't always what we crave.

From sodas to fruit juices, alcoholic beverages to teas, the options are endless. You could opt for a cup of coffee, but even though coffee is over 90% water, it may not satisfy your thirst like a refreshing glass of plain water does. So why does coffee fall short in quenching our thirst? Let's dive into the science behind it.

The Dry Mouth Dilemma

Ever experienced that unpleasant dry feeling in your mouth when saliva fails to lubricate your tissues? A glass of water works wonders in wetting your whistle and banishing that dry sensation. On the other hand, coffee leaves your mouth feeling parched. The culprit? Tannins - molecules found in fruits, red wine, and tea that give your mouth that puckery sensation.

The Diuretic Drama

Coffee has another trick up its sleeve - it's somewhat diuretic. This means it can increase urine production, leading to dehydration. Pair this with alcohol, and the dehydration effect intensifies. So sipping on beer or coffee won't effectively counteract the increased urine output, leaving you more dehydrated than before.

Hydration Hacks for Heat Waves

Next time a scorching heat wave hits your town, remember this golden rule: pair that cold beer with a glass of plain water if you want to stay hydrated. While indulging in cup after cup of coffee or beer may seem tempting, it could backfire and leave you thirstier than ever.

In conclusion, when it comes to quenching your thirst and staying hydrated, nothing beats the simplicity and effectiveness of good old-fashioned water. So next time you reach for that cup of joe or crack open a cold one, make sure to balance it out with some H2O to keep dehydration at bay.

And there you have it - the lowdown on why coffee can't quite compete with water when it comes to quenching your thirst. Stay hydrated, stay refreshed, and remember