People in three states are being cautioned to steer clear of coffee due to forecasts of “extreme” temperatures this week. The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has issued heat advisories for parts of California, Arizona, and Nevada on Wednesday and Thursday.
Warnings shared on social media by the National Weather Service included some dos and don’ts for staying safe in the heat.
Generally, drinking coffee isn’t the best idea during scorching weather. The agency recommends that folks prioritize hydration, use sunscreen, and schedule outdoor plans for cooler times of the day.
They also advise against consuming alcohol, caffeine, and heavy foods during extreme heat. Interestingly, similar cautions were raised during Father’s Day.
Lauren Moneyker, a registered dietitian nutritionist from South Carolina, mentioned, “When it’s really hot outside, I think it’s wise to pause before grabbing that cold beer or cocktail.” She added that alcohol can hinder the body’s hydration efforts.
Since alcohol acts as a diuretic, it may cause your body to lose more fluids than it takes in, which increases the risk of dehydration. Moneyker noted, “It can also disrupt your body’s temperature regulation, making you feel even hotter, which could lead to fatigue and other issues.”
Regarding caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea, moderate consumption is generally considered safe and not significantly dehydrating. However, she pointed out, “Caffeine can have mild diuretic effects when taken in larger amounts.”
“It’s crucial to pay attention to how your body reacts,” she cautioned. A cup or two of coffee or tea typically won’t lead to dehydration, particularly if you maintain sufficient water intake during the day.
For better hydration alternatives, Moneyker mentioned that milk can be an excellent choice. “Research shows that milk outperforms water and sports drinks in terms of hydration,” she shared. Milk contains natural electrolytes like potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium, along with carbohydrates and proteins.
A study from the University of St Andrews indicated that fat-free milk was ranked highly in hydration effectiveness, with whole milk also scoring well. Interestingly, coffee was reported to be the least hydrating option.
It’s worth noting that, especially in extreme heat, consuming heavy meals can be taxing for your body. “Large quantities of food require significant energy to digest, potentially raising your internal temperature,” Moneyker explained. “This could make it even more challenging to stay cool.” Instead, consider light meals featuring fresh ingredients, such as salads, grilled veggies, and lean protein. These choices tend to sit better and can help you feel more energetic.
Even watermelon was highlighted as a refreshing and hydrating snack to consider on such hot days.
