Does Coffee Count as Water? (Nice Try, But No.)

I get this question all the time—"Does coffee count as water?" And I get it. I, too, have wished my morning (and afternoon… and sometimes evening) cup of coffee could pull double duty. But, unfortunately, the answer is a hard no. If anything, coffee—and other caffeinated drinks—actually dehydrate you. So if your hydration plan includes five cups of coffee and a sip of water before bed, we need to talk.

What Happens When You’re Running on Empty?

Not drinking enough water doesn’t just make you thirsty—it messes with a whole lot more. Here are just a few perks of dehydration (sarcasm very much intended):

• Brain fog so thick you forget why you walked into a room.

• Skin so dry it starts competing with the Sahara.

• Headaches that make you question all of your life choices.

• Constipation (yep, we’re going there).

• Fatigue that no amount of coffee can fix.

Fun, right? Didn’t think so.

Why Water Matters More Than You Think

We take in toxins all the time—from the air, our food, our water, and even that fancy candle that smells like a tropical vacation. One of the best ways to help your body flush out those toxins? Good ol’ H2O. Your liver, kidneys, and digestion all depend on it to keep things moving (literally and figuratively).

Struggle to Drink Enough Water? Try This:

If you’re the type to forget about water until your lips feel like a dried-up sponge, here are some simple ways to sneak more in:

1. Start your day with a hydration boost. Before you grab coffee, drink a glass of warm water with lemon, apple cider vinegar, sea salt, and a pinch of cinnamon. It wakes up your digestion and gets you ahead of the game.

2. Make water easy to reach. I keep a 40 oz tumbler with a straw at work, a 20 oz bottle at home, and sometimes sip from a fancy wine glass in the evening—because why not?

3. Use an app or set reminders. If technology can nag me about my steps, it can remind me to drink water too.

4. Flavor it up. Not a fan of plain water? Add fruit, herbs, or a splash of electrolytes.

5. Pair it with a habit. Every time you check your email, drink water. Every time you refill your coffee, refill your water too.

   
   

My Wake-Up Call (Literally)

I always knew hydration was important, but nothing drove it home like when my daughter had a seizure two days before her wedding—all because of dehydration, exhaustion, and stress. Let me tell you, nothing puts things into perspective faster than seeing your child in a medical emergency. That moment was a major wake-up call for all of us to slow down and take care of the little habits that make a big difference.

So consider this your friendly reminder: drink your water. Your body (and your future self) will thank you.

Ready to learn more? Be sure to grab your Six Small Shifts Checklist to help you get started on your wellness journey.

Wishing you peace, strength and love,  

Maryann