Does Tea Cool You Down in Hot Weather
Let’s be real: you’ve probably heard the hot-coffee trick too. But tea has a secret weapon—it’s often less acidic and packed with antioxidants that make you feel slightly more virtuous. Plus, a hot cup of peppermint or ginger tea doesn’t just cool you; it calms your nerves about the fact that you’re sweating through your favorite shirt.
Iced coffee, on the other hand, gives you a jolt of caffeine that can actually raise your body temperature and make you jittery. Tea’s caffeine (if you choose caffeinated) is gentler, like a polite tap on the shoulder instead of a caffeine-powered sledgehammer.
The Sweet Spot: Warm, Not Scorching
You don’t need to drink tea at the temperature of molten lava. Aim for a comfortably warm cup—one that makes your mouth say, “Ooh, that’s nice,” not, “I’ve made a terrible mistake.” Herbal teas like hibiscus or chamomile are great because they’re naturally caffeine-free and can be sipped slowly.
Pro tip: Add a tiny pinch of salt to your tea. No, really—it helps your body retain water and makes you less likely to faint dramatically on the sidewalk. You’re welcome.