Coffee in the Heat: Myths and Truths About Summer Consumption
That specialty coffee is a delight at any time of the day is something coffee lovers know very well! But what about during the hotter days? While some people avoid coffee in the summer, others continue to enjoy their favorite brew regardless of the temperature. But is drinking coffee in the heat actually bad for your health?
To clear up this question, let’s explore how coffee affects the human body—whether it can cause dehydration or influence body temperature. We’ll also look at ways to include coffee in your meals and activities during hot days. Follow along with our blog and discover the myths and truths about drinking specialty coffee in the heat!
Is Drinking Coffee in the Heat Bad for You?
If you’ve heard that drinking coffee on hot days is harmful, it’s time to learn the facts!
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Does coffee cause dehydration?
Myth. While caffeine has a mild diuretic effect, that doesn’t mean specialty coffee causes dehydration. After all, coffee is mostly water. For coffee to significantly affect your hydration, you'd need to consume it excessively while also not drinking enough water.
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Does specialty coffee raise body temperature?
Partially true. Caffeine has a mild thermogenic effect, which means it can slightly boost metabolism. However, the increase in body temperature is minimal and not enough to pose health risks for regular coffee drinkers. In fact, warm beverages can even help the body regulate its temperature and cool down over time.
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Does coffee increase sweating in hot weather?
True. Like other hot foods or drinks, coffee can stimulate sweating, which helps cool the body. This is a natural thermoregulation process and doesn’t represent a health risk.
How to Enjoy Specialty Coffee in the Heat
Now that we know drinking specialty coffee in hot weather isn’t harmful, here are some tips to make the experience even more enjoyable during the summer.
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Pair coffee with water
A common practice in coffee shops is to serve a glass of water alongside coffee. It helps cleanse your palate and keeps you hydrated—offering a refreshing break before savoring your brew.
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Try iced coffee drinks
If hot coffee doesn't sound appealing on warm days, try cold options! Cold brew, for example, is a cold extraction method that results in a smooth and refreshing drink. Other great choices include iced cappuccinos and coffee over ice, blending flavor with freshness.
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Use insulated containers
If you enjoy taking iced coffee outdoors—like to the beach or on a hike—use thermal containers to keep it cool and safe to drink, especially if your recipe includes milk or whipped cream.
Refreshing Specialty Coffee Recipes for Summer
Beyond iced drinks, you can incorporate coffee into sweet, refreshing recipes. Check out these ideas:
- Coffee popsicles: Mix brewed specialty coffee (ground or whole bean) with milk and sugar, pour into molds, and freeze.
- Coffee ice cream: A creamy, rich treat that highlights coffee’s bold flavor.
- Coffee cocktails: Try an espresso martini or a coffee caipirinha for a unique twist during leisure time.
- Chocolate coffee cake: A sophisticated dessert that pairs beautifully with warm summer days.
Choosing the Best Specialty Coffee for Summer
No matter how you like to enjoy coffee in the heat, quality makes all the difference. Choosing specialty coffee from Vibe Coffee—whether ground or whole bean—ensures a refined taste and a full sensory experience. We offer top-quality beans with roasting and grinding tailored for various preparation methods.
If you want premium coffee delivered right to your door, our subscription club might be the perfect choice. Each month, you’ll receive carefully selected beans to prepare your favorite recipes—whether it’s hot summer days or cozy winter mornings.
Now that you know it’s perfectly fine to enjoy your coffee in the heat, how about exploring new ways to drink it? Pick your favorite recipe and enjoy every sip!
