Is decaf coffee a diuretic

Is decaf coffee a diuretic? Know more today.

Is decaf coffee a diuretic?

In simple the answer is no, decaf coffee is not a diuretic. Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and its different varieties are based on the ingredients used, the process it brewed, and more. Coffee can be divided into two types namely, caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee. Caffeinated coffee is the regular one which is widely consumed due to its benefits. But, on the other hand, they have some disadvantages too, and not every individual is tolerant to caffeine, and then we have a solution called decaf. It contains no caffeine to minimal caffeine concentration in it and has similar health benefits as regular coffee, but the taste and smell are different. 

What is a diuretic?

In simple diuretic means more passage of urine. In a more precise way, it is the condition in which more urine is passed, the sodium and water content in the body gets decreased, and the amount of water fluidity in the body also decreases resulting in low blood pressure.

There are water pills called diuretics, which are used to treat high blood pressure conditions. These diuretics help prevent failure, liver failure, tissue swelling, and certain kidney disorders. But there are certain side effects of consuming these diuretics too, such as dizziness, headaches, dehydration, muscle cramps, joint disorders, and impotence. 

Why is coffee a diuretic?

The answer is both yes and no. Actually coffee is diuretic when consumed in excess. For instance, if five cups of coffee are consumed in a single day, then it is a diuretic. Usually when caffeine is consumed, we tend to get more frequent urination, than usual due to this diuretic properties. As mentioned earlier, coffee absorbs sodium and absorbs a huge quantity of water. And this theory of coffee being a diuretic is only applicable when it has more caffeine content in it.

Coffee is a diuretic and is also based on other factors such as the way it was brewed, the amount of time it was heated, the originality of the coffee beans, the age of the consumer, region, genetics, and his/her caffeine intake tolerance. And this frequent or more urination happens when you are new to coffee and have consumed more caffeine content. But the actual limit of caffeine consumption per person per day is 400 mg as described by FDA.

Is decaf coffee, good for you?

Decaf is the shortened form of decaffeinated coffee. It is also made from coffee beans, but 97% of the caffeine concentration is removed from it. Decaf is considered to be the biggest source of antioxidants in the Western diet. But regular coffee has more antioxidants when compared to decaf. These antioxidants play a key role in fighting free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Apart from this decaf also contains few amounts of nutrients. 

Like regular coffee, decaf is also considered to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, increase brain function, keep you focused, and energized, and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Here are a few health benefits of drinking decaf:

  1. Treats stomach problems
  2. Detoxes the body
    1. Reduces acid reflux
    2. Keep your relaxed
      1. Helpful for caffeine deaddiction

      Does decaf coffee dehydrate you?

      Decaf coffee usually doesn’t have a diuretic effect, but at times it has a mild diuretic effect as regular coffee does. But this effect is not enough to make you dehydrated, that too only when you consume the decaf in moderation. Although decaf has numerous health benefits and keeps you energized throughout the day, there are certain disadvantages associated with it too. Not only decaf, but if you consume any other beverage that is high in caffeine then it can lead to dehydration, especially if your regular water intake is low. So, whatever beverage you choose, consume it in moderation, and also keep yourself hydrated to avoid the negative effects.

      Take Away

      Drinking coffee or decaf or any other beverages, it is always recommended to check the labels of it to confirm the caffeine content in it. It is moderate when you consume 20-30mg per serving in a regular coffee cup. Not only coffee but drinking any other beverages in excess can be harmful to you, and always remember to stay hydrated no matter what, and you can avoid many problems. Talk to your healthcare professional if you face difficulties while consuming caffeine. 

      FAQs

      Does decaf coffee increase urination?

      No, there is no practical evidence that decaf increases urination, it is also like every other regular beverage.

      Does decaf coffee still contain caffeine?

      Yes, decaf still contains caffeine in it. However, the caffeine content in it is very low when compared to the regular coffee.

      Is decaf coffee hydrating or dehydrating?

      Decaf is not a hydrating beverage, and not necessarily dehydrate you too, as the caffeine content is very low the urge for urination also decreases and it doesn’t dehydrate you.

      References

      Decaf coffee: Good or Bad? By Healthline, Feb 8, 2023.

      Diuretics. By Mayo Clinic, Aug 13, 2021.

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