By the time 2pm rolls around, many of us can feel our energy levels plummeting. That sluggish feeling sends most of us straight to the coffee machine for our second, third, or even fourth cup of coffee. It’s a quick fix, and the caffeine jolt feels like a lifesaver during the workday. But is coffee really the best option for hydration and keeping your energy levels steady? Or should we be reaching for a glass of plain water instead?
When it comes to workplace hydration, water and coffee are the two most common choices. While coffee keeps us awake and alert, water keeps us hydrated and functioning at our best. So, which one is better for staying sharp and refreshed throughout the day?
Coffee: The energy boost
Coffee is a beloved beverage for a reason – it gives you a jolt of energy when you need it most. The caffeine in coffee stimulates the brain, increasing focus and alertness. It’s no wonder why so many of us rely on coffee to push through the afternoon slump at work.
However, while coffee can wake you up, it also has its downsides when it comes to hydration. Caffeine is a mild diuretic, meaning it can cause your body to lose fluids. This doesn’t mean that coffee is dehydrating, but it’s not as effective as water for keeping your body fully hydrated throughout the day.
Some studies suggest that drinking coffee can still contribute to your daily fluid intake, but it’s important not to rely solely on coffee for hydration. Drinking too much coffee may also lead to increased feelings of anxiety, jitters, or that post-caffeine crash, leaving you feeling more tired than before. So, while coffee might give you the mental boost you need, it shouldn’t replace water when it comes to proper hydration.
Water: The hydration hero
On the other hand, water is the ultimate source of hydration. Our bodies are made up of about 60% water, and staying properly hydrated is crucial for everything from regulating body temperature to maintaining focus and productivity at work. Unlike coffee, water is absorbed efficiently by the body without any extra work for your kidneys.
Sipping water regularly throughout the day helps prevent dehydration, which can lead to headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. In fact, one of the dangers of on-the-job dehydration is that it can impact your cognitive abilities and reduce your performance, especially in demanding or fast-paced work environments.
A great way to encourage hydration at work is to ensure there is easy access to water through a water dispenser in office spaces. Having a dedicated water station makes it convenient for employees to fill up their bottles or grab a quick drink between tasks. Plus, choosing water over coffee in the afternoon can help you stay refreshed without the jitters or energy crashes.
Striking the right hydration routine
So, should you give up your coffee for good? Not necessarily. The key to staying hydrated and energised at work is balance. Coffee can still be part of your daily routine, but it shouldn’t be the only thing you drink throughout the day.
Start your day with a glass of water before your morning coffee. This simple step helps you start the day hydrated and primes your body for caffeine. Then, alternate between coffee and water during the day. For every cup of coffee you drink, try to have a glass of water to stay properly hydrated.
A well-placed office water cooler is a subtle reminder to reach for water more often, especially when you feel the need for an afternoon pick-me-up. By making water readily available, you’re less likely to keep running to the coffee machine out of habit.
Additionally, if you find yourself getting tired mid-afternoon, try reaching for a glass of cold water first. Sometimes, tiredness is a sign of mild dehydration, and rehydrating can give you the energy boost you need without the added caffeine.
Tips for staying hydrated and energised at work
- Set reminders to drink water: Use a hydration app or set hourly reminders on your phone or computer to encourage regular water breaks.
- Make water easily accessible: Keep a reusable water bottle at your desk or near your workspace, and refill it frequently from the office water dispenser.
- Enjoy infused water: If plain water doesn’t excite you, try adding slices of fruit or herbs like mint to your water. This can make hydrating more enjoyable without relying on sugary drinks or excessive coffee.
- Watch your caffeine intake: Stick to one or two cups of coffee per day. Drinking too much caffeine can leave you feeling jittery or restless and may interfere with your sleep later on.
- Take regular breaks: Instead of using coffee as an excuse to take a break, stand up and stretch, take a short walk, or drink some water. These short breaks can help reset your focus and energy levels without needing that extra cup of coffee.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, both water and coffee have their benefits, but water is the true hydration hero that your body needs to function at its best. While coffee can give you that much-needed energy boost, it’s important to prioritise water for proper hydration and long-term energy. Finding a balance between the two can help you stay productive, focused, and refreshed without overloading on caffeine.
Whether you’re a coffee lover or someone trying to drink more water, making hydration a priority at work is key to feeling your best. And for all your hydration needs, Watermaxx is your go-to for water dispensers, boilers, water coolers, and related products for both commercial and residential use.