For many, the day doesn’t start until that first cup of coffee. Whether it’s to jumpstart energy levels or enjoy a social moment, coffee has cemented its place in daily routines. But how much coffee is too much?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that a healthy adult can safely consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine daily, equivalent to about four or five eight-ounce cups of coffee. Meanwhile, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises against caffeine consumption for children and teenagers.
However, the impact of caffeine can vary widely among individuals. Factors such as medications and caffeine sensitivity can alter how one reacts to their daily brew. While some switch to decaffeinated coffee to reduce intake, it’s essential to remember that decaf still contains caffeine, typically between two and 15 milligrams per eight-ounce cup, according to the FDA.
Physical symptoms can indicate excessive caffeine intake. Signs such as insomnia, jitters, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, stomach upset, nausea, and headaches suggest it may be time to cut back. Listening to your body is crucial, as noted by Jessica Sylvester, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and a dietitian at the Florida Nutrition Group. “If you start feeling overly tired and the caffeine is not helping, then you’ve got to stop,” Sylvester told NBC News. “If your heart starts beating incredibly fast, you’ve got to stop. It’s different for each person.”
Age can also influence caffeine tolerance. A person who comfortably consumes multiple servings of cold brew at 25 might find it challenging at 45. Exceeding 1,200 milligrams of caffeine can lead to severe side effects such as seizures or even death, though this would typically require consuming over 20 cups of coffee in a short timeframe.
Caffeine overdose, though rare, is possible. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, hallucinations, confusion, agitation, dizziness, fever, irregular heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, muscle twitching, and rapid heartbeat, as per Mount Sinai. If you suspect a caffeine overdose, call the Poison Help hotline at 800-222-1222. Providing information such as the individual’s age, weight, caffeine amount consumed, and the time of consumption can aid in effective assistance.
Emergency treatment for caffeine overdose may involve breathing support, intravenous (IV) fluids, medication to alleviate symptoms, or even a shock to the heart to correct rhythm irregularities.
In essence, while coffee can be a delightful part of daily life, moderation and awareness of one’s own limits are key to avoiding adverse effects.