The World Health Organization recently reclassified hot beverages like tea and coffee, as a probable cancer trigger risk.  They found that there were higher rates of esophageal cancer among people who drank extremely hot tea or coffee drinks, compared to those who consumed their drinks at significantly lower temperatures.

Why would these beverages trigger cancer? Presumably because the hot temperatures scalds delicate tissues in the esophagus. This damage can trigger a more rapid turnover of cells which can lead to malignant growth.

So how hot is too hot? There seemed to be an increase in esophageal cancer only when people consistently drank extremely hot beverages.  The National Coffee Association USA recommends holding coffee at 180 degrees Fahrenheit, but drinking beverages below 149 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid damaging the esophagus.

Go ahead and grab your favorite fall beverage, just wait for it to cool down a bit!