AIIMS Raipur orthopaedic surgeon warns drinking ‘too much chai or coffee’ in winter can harm your joints

Winter hydration is vital for joint health, according to Dr Dushyant Chouhan. He advises balancing hot drinks with adequate water intake to prevent dehydration.
While sipping chai or coffee is a winter ritual for many, overindulging in these hot beverages can have hidden health consequences. Dr Dushyant Chouhan, orthopaedic and sports injury surgeon at AIIMS Raipur, shares in his November 17 Instagram post why it’s important to moderate your intake during the colder months and what effects too much caffeine can have on your body. (Also read: Vadodara surgeon says ‘10,000 steps can’t undo 10 hours of sitting’; shares best way to counter long sitting hours )
Can hot beverages really affect your joints
“Tea is hot, but it can ‘cool down’ your bones. It may sound a little odd, but let me explain the fact behind it,” says Dr Dushyant. “When winter comes, we tend to drink a lot more tea and coffee to keep warm. However, the cartilage inside your knees, the layer between two bones, can dry out. This increases stiffness in the joint and causes more pain when the bones rub together.”
How to enjoy tea or coffee in winter
Dr Chouhan explains that winter dehydration is often overlooked, but it plays a big role in joint health. “So yes, you can enjoy your tea, but it’s essential to drink enough water alongside it. Staying hydrated helps prevent dehydration, which is common in winter, and is vital for maintaining healthy joints,” he adds.
He further notes, “People often don’t realise that what we drink can affect our bones and joints. Simple measures like keeping water intake adequate while enjoying hot beverages can make a significant difference.”
“I hope this information helps readers take care of their joints during the colder months. Many people have shared this advice after seeing it, and it’s important to spread awareness,” Dr Chouhan concludes.
Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHORAkanksha AgnihotriAkanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.Read More
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