Caffeine?

I have heard that we are not supposed to have caffeine because of it's dehydrating qualities.  However, I really want to try some of the Big Train Frappe products because I keep hearing how great they are.  Does caffeine really dehydrate us that much?  I have heard so many different things.  I have heard that if you have 8 oz of a highly caffeinated drink, you have to drink 16 oz of fluid to make up for the deficit it creates.  On the other hand, I have heard that it does not cause significant dehydration as long as you stick to only 8 oz or so.

Anyone happen to know what is accurate?

Caffeine is mildly dehydrating.
It is also a gastric and general stimulant... meaning it causes increased gastric secretions (stomach acids), movement/squeezing of the intestines (ie promote a BM), may cause central nervous system stimulation.
I personally am a little sensitive to caffeine. Early out, while I was on prilosec (gastric protectant) we were encouraged to avoid caffeine to protect the new pouch.
I choose to limit caffeine due to my sensitivity to it, but my motto is now
EVERYTHING IN MODERATION!, unless I know it is a trigger food and it will take me off track! I will have a cup of 1/2 caf if it is available and Im in the mood, and do Not adjust my fluid intake... I take in 80 or so ounces daily, and figure one cup of a moderate caffeine containing item will be detrimental

I was told  to stay away from coffee. I have a history of ulcers and was told coffee could make the chances much worse. And ulcers for us is a very very serious problem so my advice would be to not have coffee in any form. 

My doc said caffeine can trigger hunger and possibly upset the stomach.  My plan allows caffeine and carbonated drinks at 6 mths out

I drink coffee almost every day with no ill effects. I did notice I need to use the bathroom a little more than normal on days when I do, so I upped my fluids. I found coffee actually reduced my appetite, so it goes to show you we all respond a little differently from one another.

Kat

They'll have to pry my coffee out of my cold, dead hands.

 

I was told I can have one cup of coffee every morning with milk. I do.