Many of us are dependent on that cup of coffee to get the day started. We feel weak, sluggish and unable to function until we get that cup of Joe. Then everything seems right with the world and we go about our merry ways.
We drink coffee primarily for the caffeine. A cup of coffee, on the average has around 80 to 100 milligrams of caffeine. So what exactly is caffeine and what are the effects of consuming it?
Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in tea, coffee and cacao plants. It is known to stimulate the brain and central nervous system, keeping us awake and feeling energetic.
Apart from coffee, we get our caffeine kick from its various commercial forms and iterations. Energy drinks, pre-workout drinks and even sodas contain caffeine in varying levels and doses.
Increased energy, improved mental focus, delayed fatigue and a general sense of well-being are some of benefits associated with caffeine consumption. Some of us, me included, are heavily dependent on caffeine, consuming several cups of coffee or energy drinks throughout the day.
Although deaths associated with caffeine overdose are extremely rare, it is important for us to realize that overconsumption of caffeine may have a downside. For starters, a lethal dose of caffeine is about 10 grams. That’s about 100 cups of coffee. It would be extremely difficult for someone to ingest that much unless it is a willful attempt to terminate one’s existence.
That being said, the US-based Mayo Clinic, a nonprofit academic medical center, says that 400 milligrams of caffeine appears to be a safe daily level of consumption. That’s equal to around four to six cups of coffee. Going past that amount, while not in itself life threatening, may lead to some unpleasant side effects such as migraine headaches, insomnia, irritability and restlessness, among others.
Once we begin feeling any of this, it may be a good idea to take stock of our caffeine intake. If for instance we like consuming energy drinks, let us read the nutrition labels. Some commercially available drinks contain over 200 mg of caffeine. And while the dose of instant energy is good, over time we may build up a tolerance and would need more caffeine to get the same effects.
Sure, coffee does have its benefits. But if you feel you may be consuming too much, start paying attention to the caffeine you are getting from the food and drinks you are taking in. Take note that chocolates, candy bars and ice cream may also contain caffeine.
For certain, most of us need caffeine in our lives. Whether to get us through a tough work day or a grueling workout, keep in mind that too much of a good thing may turn out to be bad if we are not careful. Best to not exceed the 400-mg range a day if and when possible.