'Thirst trap': 5 drinks that can secretly dehydrate you

             Written by: Ehsan Siddiqui

1 July 2025

They seem hydrating and refreshing; we reach for them to quench our thirst, but surprisingly, some drinks can actually make you dehydrated. Here are some you should stay wary of.

Photo Credit: Freepik

Packed smoothies that claim to have a high protein content also contain additional sugar & sweeteners. They  can actually cause dehydration in your body.

Protein Smoothie

Photo Credit: Freepik

Even though iced coffee tastes good and gives you a boost of energy, its high caffeine content can eventually cause dehydration.

Iced Coffee

Photo Credit: Freepik

Some liquid-packed ORS drinks, especially flavored or commercially altered ones, may contain excess sugar or sodium. And can lead to dehydration.

Flavored ORS Drinks

Photo Credit: Freepik

Energy drinks, which are loaded with caffeine, sugar, and chemicals, provide a short-term boost at the expense of elevated fluid loss and potential dehydration.

Energy Drinks

Photo Credit: Freepik

Don't let the term "fruit" deceive you.  Packed juices are usually high in added sugars and low in fiber, which raises blood sugar and draws water from your cells, causing dehydration.

Packed Fruit Juices

Photo Credit: Freepik