Is lukewarm water, chips, and coffee actually good in the heat? Expert weighs in

As Denmark swelters, many are left wondering: is lukewarm water better than cold? Are chips a guilty pleasure or a smart snack? And does coffee help or hinder in the heat?

Lars Nybo, professor of human physiology at the University of Copenhagen, offers clarity on what works—and what doesn’t—when temperatures rise.

His first and most critical advice: be extra cautious in the first few days of hot weather, as the body is particularly vulnerable then.

Is eating chips in the heat unhealthy?

Normally, excessive salt intake is discouraged. But in hot weather, sweating causes the body to lose salt, making a small indulgence like chips acceptable.

“Whether it’s chips or extra salt on your potatoes—that’s up to you,” Nybo says.

Is lukewarm water better than cold in the heat?

While very cold water can trick the body into reducing its natural heat loss, Nybo says this effect is negligible when you’re already hot.

“Cold water will briefly cool you down. Drink what feels comfortable,” he advises. The key is staying hydrated—regardless of temperature.

Is vodka with soda better than beer?

Alcohol percentage is the deciding factor. Whether it’s beer or a vodka-soda, the body needs additional water to maintain balance.

“For a vodka-soda to avoid dehydration, the drink would need so much soda that the alcohol percentage drops below two percent,” Nybo explains.

As for electrolyte drinks, he dismisses them as unnecessary: “There’s no need to buy special drinks. The main thing you lose in sweat is sodium chloride—ordinary salt.”

Is coffee good in the heat?

Caffeine is a diuretic, but Nybo says the effect is offset if you drink water alongside your coffee.

“If you balance it with water, you keep caffeine levels low enough that it won’t disrupt your fluid balance,” he says.

What’s the best clothing in the heat?

Loose, breathable clothing is ideal—it shields the skin from direct sunlight and UV rays while allowing airflow.

“In the shade, less clothing is better for heat loss, but since we can’t walk around naked, choose lightweight, non-insulating fabrics like athletic wear over wool,” Nybo advises.