Which water is best during a fever? A comprehensive guide to optimal hydration

October 17, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research from Abbott Nutrition News, fever can cause significant fluid loss through sweating and faster breathing, which necessitates increased hydration to support the immune system. So, which water is best during a fever? While plain water is foundational, specific circumstances call for other hydration strategies to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.

Quick Summary

This guide explores the best fluid options for hydration during a fever, including plain water, electrolyte drinks, coconut water, and broths. It explains why some beverages should be avoided and provides practical tips for staying hydrated to support recovery and overall well-being.

Key Points

Plain Water is Priority: During a fever, stay hydrated with plain water, sipping consistently, as it is the most fundamental fluid.
Electrolytes are Key for Fluid Loss: Replenish electrolytes lost from fever, sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea with oral rehydration solutions or coconut water to prevent an imbalance.
Temperature is Personal Preference: Whether to drink cold or warm water depends on personal comfort, but the important thing is to consistently consume fluids.
Avoid Dehydrating Beverages: Stay away from caffeinated drinks, alcohol, and high-sugar juices, as they are diuretics and can worsen dehydration.
Monitor Hydration Status: Pay attention to signs of dehydration, such as dark urine and fatigue, and seek medical advice if symptoms become severe.
Sip, Don't Chug: To avoid upsetting your stomach, especially when feeling nauseous, sip fluids regularly in small amounts throughout the day instead of drinking a large volume at once.

The Critical Role of Hydration During a Fever

A fever is your body's natural response to fighting off an infection. As your core temperature rises, you lose fluids more rapidly through sweating and breathing, which increases the risk of dehydration. Dehydration can then worsen fever-related symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, and muscle aches, and impair your body's ability to regulate its temperature. Staying adequately hydrated supports your immune system by allowing immune cells to move efficiently through your body to fight off the illness. It also helps flush out toxins and keeps your mucous membranes moist, which can help with congestion.

The Importance of Electrolyte Replenishment

While plain water is essential, your body doesn't just lose water during a fever. Conditions like vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating can deplete crucial electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and chloride. Electrolytes are vital for maintaining fluid balance and healthy cell signaling. In these cases, simply drinking plain water may not be enough. Opting for a fluid containing electrolytes can help restore this balance, preventing muscle cramps, headaches, and dizziness associated with an imbalance.

Optimal Fluids for Fever: A Detailed Breakdown

Water

Plain Water: The cornerstone of hydration, plain water is always a solid choice. For general fever symptoms without excessive fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhea, filtered water is an excellent option to ensure purity. The key is to sip it consistently throughout the day, rather than drinking large amounts at once, which can be hard on the system.

Electrolyte-Enhanced Drinks

Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): For moderate dehydration, ORS like Pedialyte are specifically formulated with an optimal balance of electrolytes and glucose to facilitate water absorption. These are especially beneficial if you're experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.
Coconut Water: Known for its natural electrolyte content, coconut water is another great option. It can help replenish lost minerals and provides a small amount of natural sugar for energy. Just be mindful of the sugar content and avoid overly sweetened bottled versions.

Warm Fluids

Clear Broths: Chicken or vegetable broth provides fluids and electrolytes, and the warmth can be soothing for a sore throat or congestion. Opt for low-sodium varieties to avoid excess sodium.
Herbal Teas: Chamomile, peppermint, or ginger tea can be comforting. The steam can help clear stuffiness, and certain herbs offer anti-inflammatory properties. Adding a little honey can also soothe a sore throat, but avoid caffeinated teas.

The Temperature Debate: Cold vs. Warm Water

For many, the ideal temperature is a matter of personal preference. Some people find cold liquids, such as sipping chilled water or sucking on ice pops, help numb a sore throat. However, some sources suggest that very cold drinks can thicken mucus. Conversely, warm liquids and steam can help clear congestion. The most important factor is maintaining consistent fluid intake, so choose the temperature that feels most soothing to you and makes you want to keep drinking.

Comparison of Hydrating Fluids for Fever


Fluid Type	Best For	Electrolyte Content	Sugar Content	Benefits	Considerations
Plain Water	Everyday hydration, mild fever	Low	None	Foundational hydration, flushes toxins.	No electrolyte replacement; add electrolytes for severe fluid loss.
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)	Moderate to severe dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea.	High	Balanced	Scientifically formulated for optimal absorption.	Can be expensive; some may find the taste unappealing.
Coconut Water	Replenishing electrolytes, mild dehydration.	High	Natural	Natural source of minerals and easy on the stomach.	Check labels for added sugars in bottled versions.
Clear Broths	Soothing, providing some nutrients and warmth.	Moderate	Low	Comforting, helps with congestion.	Can be high in sodium; choose low-sodium options.
Herbal Tea with Honey	Sore throat, congestion.	Low	Moderate	Anti-inflammatory properties, soothing.	Ensure it is caffeine-free and honey is safe for age.

Fluids to Avoid When You Have a Fever

To ensure a smooth recovery, it is best to avoid certain beverages that can worsen dehydration or inflammation.

Caffeinated Drinks: Coffee, black tea, and energy drinks are diuretics, meaning they cause your body to lose more fluid.
Alcohol: Alcohol is extremely dehydrating and can weaken your immune system.
Sugary Drinks: Sodas, sweetened juices, and other high-sugar beverages can cause inflammation and may worsen symptoms like diarrhea.

Practical Tips for Staying Hydrated

Sip Regularly: Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink, as thirst is a sign that you are already on your way to being dehydrated. Set a timer to remind yourself to take a few sips every 15 minutes or so.
Use Ice Chips or Popsicles: If nausea makes drinking difficult, sucking on ice chips or low-sugar popsicles can help you consume fluids in smaller, more manageable doses.
Monitor Your Urine: Pay attention to the color of your urine. It should be pale yellow or clear. Darker, more concentrated urine is a tell-tale sign of dehydration.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Hydration for Recovery

While plain water is the cornerstone of effective hydration during a fever, the 'best' water depends on the severity of your symptoms. For mild cases, consistent sipping of filtered or plain water is sufficient. If you're experiencing excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea, incorporating electrolyte-rich fluids like coconut water or an oral rehydration solution becomes essential to replenish lost minerals and aid in proper absorption. Always listen to your body and avoid fluids that can hinder your recovery, such as those high in caffeine or sugar. Staying vigilant with your fluid intake is one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take to support your body's healing process. For more information on identifying and managing dehydration, consult reliable resources like the Mayo Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, drinking cold water is generally safe and can feel soothing when you have a fever. However, it may thicken mucus for some people, so it's a matter of personal preference. The most important thing is to stay hydrated, regardless of the temperature.

Yes, coconut water is a good option during a fever. It is naturally rich in electrolytes like potassium, which can help replenish lost minerals, especially when accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea.

Symptoms of dehydration include feeling thirsty, having a dry mouth and lips, darker-colored urine, peeing less frequently, and feeling tired or dizzy. In infants, a sunken soft spot (fontanelle) or crying without tears can be signs.

A sports drink can be a suitable option if you need to replenish electrolytes lost from sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. However, many sports drinks are high in sugar, so consider a low-sugar version or dilute it with water.

While the exact amount varies, you should aim to drink more fluids than usual during a fever. It's recommended to sip fluids consistently throughout the day rather than drinking large quantities at once.

100% juice without added sugars can help with hydration and provide some vitamins. However, some fruit juices are high in sugar, which can be hard on the stomach and may prolong diarrhea. Clear broth or water is often a better choice.

Dehydration does not directly cause fever, but severe dehydration can lead to an increase in body temperature because the body cannot regulate its temperature properly through sweating. If dehydration is severe, it can be a sign of heatstroke, which requires immediate medical attention.