How Much Coffee Is Too Much?

We all love our morning cup of joe, but if you’re going overboard or are particularly sensitive to caffeine, you might be experiencing unpleasant side effects.

Too Much Caffeine?

It can be hard to know whether you’re drinking too much caffeine. But it’s worth paying attention to the signs that might indicate you’re getting too many jolts from that cup of coffee every morning. Caffeine has a range of health benefits, but it’s also a stimulant and can be harmful to your body. When you consume too much, it can affect your heart and blood pressure. Your doctor can help you determine how much caffeine is safe for you to drink. They’ll take into account your age, weight, health status and any other medications you may be taking. The typical American adult should consume about 200 milligrams of caffeine a day, which is the equivalent of two five-ounce cups of coffee or four 12 ounce colas. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, even moderate amounts can cause insomnia (trouble sleeping), rapid heart rate, anxiety and feelings of restlessness.

Caffeine Guidelines

Caffeine can provide a boost of energy, help you focus and improve your mood. However, consuming too much of it can be dangerous and harmful to your health. The FDA recommends adults limit their caffeine intake to 400 milligrams a day, which translates to four 8-ounce cups of coffee. But the amount you need to consume depends on your age, weight, overall tolerance and other factors. You should know that caffeine varies based on the type of beans you use, roasting and brewing methods and even how long it takes to brew a cup of coffee or tea. When you drink too much caffeine, you may experience jitteriness, nervousness, irritability, increased blood pressure, stomach irritation and a fast heart rate. You can feel these effects even after only a few cups of coffee. Likewise, drinking too much coffee can dehydrate you, and this isn’t good for your heart or blood sugar levels.