Does Tea Count as Water Intake?

A cuppa is a quintessential part of British culture, whether it's a builder's tea to start the day, or an Earl Grey to wind down in the evening. But with all the water that goes into making tea, a brewing question is: does drinking tea count towards your water intake? Let's delve into this topic further – keep on reading! 

So, can tea count as water intake? 

While tea itself isn't inherently hydrating, the water it's made with is the best source of hydration. When sipping on your well-deserved brew, it is important to note that tea usually contains caffeine, which when consumed in high quantities can have some mild diuretic effects. Thankfully however, you’d have to drink more than 8 cups a day to notice any real diuretic effect. So, cheers to a lovely cuppa!  

Is drinking a lot of tea the same as drinking water?   

As mentioned, the water in a cup of tea can hydrate you, but drinking a lot of tea is not the same as drinking water. 

To maintain optimal hydration and overall health, it's recommended to balance tea intake with plenty of plain water and to limit added sugars, milk or milk alternatives. 

Different types of teas and their impact on hydration 

Tea comes in many varieties. Let's explore some popular types and their potential impact on hydration. 

Do herbal teas count as water intake? 

Yes, herbal teas can definitely contribute to your daily water intake. Unlike black and green teas, herbal teas are generally caffeine free, making them a great option without the potential side effects of caffeine we mentioned before. Popular choices include chamomile, peppermint, rooibos, hibiscus, ginger, and mint. These teas offer a wide range of flavours and can be enjoyed hot or iced. 

Black Tea and Green Tea 

Black tea is an oxidized tea, typically stronger in flavour than other varieties and containing caffeine. Whilst, green tea is not oxidised, but it does contain caffeine. 

Oolong Tea 

Oolong tea is a semi-oxidised tea with flavours ranging from light and floral to dark and robust.  It also contains caffeine.  

White Tea 

White tea is harvested at the start of the season and is generally made from the young leaves and buds. It is naturally low in caffeine. 

Pu-erh Tea 

Pu-erh tea is a unique fermented tea traditionally made in Yunnan province and contains caffeine. 

Does drinking hot or cold tea count differently? 

Whether you like your tea hot or cold, both can contribute to fluid intake. When choosing between enjoying a hot or cold tea, it usually comes down to weather conditions and personal preference. Both forms can be equally delightful, so enjoy your tea at any temperature! 

Recommended water intake  

While drinks such as teas and certain foods can help, water is a great way to hydrate! Whether it's natural mineral water or spring water, The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommends a water intake of 2.5 litres for men and 2.0 litres per day for women (via food and drink consumption). Although, your needs can vary based on your lifestyle and climate.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

• What happens if you only drink tea and no water? 

Relying primarily on tea, especially caffeinated varieties, may not be sufficient for meeting your daily fluid needs. Caffeine can have a mild diuretic effect, increasing urine production, particularly at higher consumption levels. To maintain optimal hydration, it's essential to drink the recommended 6-8 glasses of water per day, in addition to your tea consumption. 

• How much tea is too much? 

While the exact amount of tea that's too much can vary from person to person, it's generally recommended to limit your intake to no more than 4 cups a day. Excessive consumption of caffeinated tea can lead to side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues.  

• Does tea contain caffeine? 

Yes, green, black, white, and oolong teas contain caffeine, while most herbal teas are caffeine-free. 

• Can drinking tea dehydrate you? What about decaf tea? 

Drinking tea in moderation does not dehydrate you. However, excessive consumption of caffeinated tea, could cause mild diuretic effects.  Although decaffeinated tea has most of the caffeine removed, a little remains – so, it can contribute to your fluid intake. 

Final thoughts 

Tea can be a delicious and refreshing addition to your daily routine, especially if you're looking for ways to drink more water. However, it’s important to remember that tea isn’t a magic potion. Try to balance your tea consumption with water to keep your body happy and healthy.