The revelation known today as the Word of Wisdom was given as a warning. It refers to "hot drinks". That phrase was used by Joseph Smith in recording the revelation because it was a phrase in common use at that time. People referred to drinks as "cold drinks" or "hot drinks". People knew what Joseph meant by "hot drinks". That phrase is not in common use today, and there is controversy today about the meaning of "hot drinks". To clarify the meaning of "hot drinks", the prophets of the church have defined "hot drinks" as meaning tea and coffee. This is what the Lord said about hot drinks (using the phraseology of Joseph Smith).
And again, hot drinks are not for the body or belly (D&C 89:9)
Abstinence from tea and coffee is required for a Temple recommend. Abstinence from other drinks that may have elevated temperatures, such as hot chocolate, is left to the discretion of the user. I do know of one case where a Bishop authorized a ward member (my mother) to drink coffee because that person was directed by her doctor to consume caffeine for her heart-problem. She retained her Temple recommend while consuming one cup of coffee per day.
Scientists are researching the effects of tea and coffee on our bodies. One of the main ingredients in tea and coffee is caffeine, and scientists are focusing on that ingredient in much of their research. It is important to note, however, that caffeine is not mentioned in the Word of Wisdom, and the consumption of caffeine may or may not be the reason the Lord said "hot drinks are not for the body or belly".
I was surprised to discover that almost all of the scientific articles about tea and coffee that I read reported beneficial results. Those articles are focusing on the beneficial effects of caffeine, a stimulant. I did find a few articles that reported negative effects of caffeine.
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