Caffeine is a great way to get the energy you need to take on the day, from fresh ground coffee and black teas to energy drinks and sodas. Whether it’s a way to wake up during your morning commute or an afternoon pick-me-up, the right amount of caffeine can improve memory, decrease fatigue, and improve mental function.
For most of us, caffeine is a part of the daily routine — a cup of brewed coffee before work in the morning, an afternoon iced coffee from the local coffee shop, or a soothing cup of tea after dinner. Caffeine such as coffees and teas are great in moderation.
As you enjoy your favorite coffee or tea, it’s important to keep in mind that too much caffeine can interfere with healthy sleep patterns. Caffeine can stay in your body for up to 12 hours and consuming too much caffeine can cause insomnia, restlessness, nervousness, increased heart rate and respiration, and muscle tremors. When consuming your daily dose of caffeine, how can you know how much is too much?
According to Mayo Clinic, 400 milligrams of caffeine, about four cups of brewed coffee, per day is safe for adults. Whether it’s with chocolate or soda, children should have not more than 100 milligrams of caffeine a day.
The average cup of coffee contains about 95 milligrams of caffeine, while a 12-ounce soda contains between 35 and 45 milligrams, an 8-ounce cup of tea contains between 14 and 60 milligrams, and most energy drinks contain about 70 milligrams. Dark chocolate and milk chocolate also contain small levels of caffeine from the cocoa beans.
Everyone reacts to caffeine differently, and some caffeine drinkers are more sensitive to the effects; health conditions, age, and medication use can also cause different reactions. If you’re not sure if you’re consuming too much caffeine, trust your body and look for the signs.
To avoid headache, insomnia, nervousness, and irritability, experts recommend not to consume caffeine at least four to six hours before going to sleep. For those who are sensitive to caffeine, avoid having caffeine 12 hours before bed.
If you feel as though you are drinking too much coffee or tea on a regular basis, cut back gradually and switch to decaf coffee or herbal, caffeine-free teas.
Whether it’s with a latte, cappuccino, expresso, or coffee you brewed yourself at home, don’t be afraid to enjoy your daily serving of caffeinated coffee — as long as you feel healthy and aren’t having trouble sleeping at night. Made from sourced coffee beans from the Sumatra region, The BlanQuil Buzz Sumatra Coffee is a great treat for those who need an energy boost in the morning. The medium/dark roast has complex flavors of sweet spice, molasses, chocolate and subdued earthiness.