Drinking water before or after coffee is generally beneficial and recommended for several reasons related to hydration, digestion, and minimizing potential side effects of coffee. Water helps maintain hydration, which is essential for overall health, and can also buffer some of the acidity and stimulant effects of coffee.
Starting your day with water before coffee can help jumpstart your system and reduce the risk of dehydration. Coffee is often thought to be dehydrating, but research shows that moderate coffee consumption contributes to hydration similarly to water because coffee is mostly water itself[4][6]. However, drinking plain water before coffee ensures your body is well hydrated before the diuretic effects of caffeine take hold. Some experts even suggest adding a pinch of salt or lemon to morning water to enhance absorption and support adrenal function, which may help prevent the jitters or crashes sometimes caused by coffee on an empty stomach[2].
Drinking water after coffee is also helpful because coffee’s acidity can sometimes cause stomach discomfort, bloating, or acid reflux in sensitive individuals. Water acts as a buffer, diluting stomach acid and reducing irritation[2]. This can be especially important if you consume coffee on an empty stomach, which may overstimulate the adrenal system and increase cortisol levels, potentially leading to digestive issues or increased anxiety[2][8].
From a health perspective, maintaining adequate fluid intake throughout the day is crucial. A recent large study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that drinking a combination of water, coffee, and tea—about 7 to 8 cups total daily—was associated with a lower risk of death from all causes compared to drinking fewer than 4 drinks per day[1][3]. This suggests that coffee, when consumed as part of a balanced fluid intake, contributes positively to hydration and overall health.
Coffee also has benefits beyond hydration. It improves mood and alertness by blocking adenosine receptors and increasing dopamine activity in the brain, which can make you feel happier and more enthusiastic, especially in the morning[5]. However, to maximize these benefits and minimize side effects like jitters or digestive discomfort, pairing coffee with water intake is advisable.
In practical terms, a good routine might be to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning to hydrate your body, then enjoy your coffee. After finishing your coffee, drinking another glass of water can help soothe your stomach and maintain hydration. This approach supports bodily functions, reduces potential negative effects of coffee, and aligns with research suggesting a balanced intake of fluids including coffee and water is beneficial for longevity and health[1][3][4].
Sources:
[1] Medical News Today, Daily combo of water, coffee, and tea linked to longevity
[2] Balance Coffee, Should You Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach
[3] NDTV Health, A Combination Of Water, Coffee And Tea Linked To Longevity
[4] Coffee and Health, Debunking Coffee Myths: The Truth Behind Your Brew
[5] Daily Coffee News, Science Recently Delivered This Shocker: Morning Coffee Improves Mood
[6] Dr.Oracle AI, Does caffeinated coffee contribute to daily water intake?
[8] AOL, Hot tea or iced coffee? Study says your choice could affect mood
