How Much Caffeine in Coffee

Brewed coffee can contain anywhere from 75 to 150 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce cup, according to the Clinics. Espresso has a lot more caffeine than regular brewed coffee — typically between 75 and 150 milligrams per 1.5-ounce shot.

So how much caffeine is in your coffee? It depends on the brewing method and the coffee beans themselves. But rest assured, even if you’re drinking a high-caffeine coffee beverage, the dose is unlikely to be lethal.

The average adult can safely consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day without experiencing adverse effects, the Mayo Clinic says. Pregnant women should consume no more than 200 milligrams per day, and children should have even less.

Caffeine is a stimulant that can cause anxiety, nervousness and insomnia in high doses. It’s also addictive, so people who drink coffee regularly may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headache, fatigue and irritability when they don’t get their caffeine fix.

But if you’re healthy and you don’t exceed the daily recommended limit, caffeine is generally safe. In fact, it can even have some health benefits, including reducing the risk of Parkinson’s disease and Type 2 diabetes.

The average amount of caffeine in an 8-ounce cup of coffee is about 95 milligrams, but can range from 25 to 200 milligrams, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some coffee drinkers may drink more than one cup of coffee at a time, so the caffeine dose can quickly add up.

How does caffeine affect the body?

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that can improve alertness, focus and energy. But it can also cause side effects such as headache, anxiety and jitters. When consumed in large doses, caffeine can also lead to unwanted side effects such as rapid heart rate and even seizures.

How much is too much caffeine?

The Clinics recommends that adults limit caffeine intake to 400 milligrams per day, which is about the equivalent of four cups of coffee. Pregnant women should consume no more than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day, and children should have even less.

How can I reduce the caffeine in my coffee?

If you’re looking to reduce the caffeine in your coffee, you can try ordering a smaller size or using a low-caffeine coffee bean. You can also try brewing with a French press or cold brew coffee, which typically contains less caffeine than coffee that’s been brewed with a standard coffee pot.

Conclusion

The caffeine in coffee can be a helpful pick-me-up in the morning, but it’s important to be mindful of how much caffeine you’re drinking each day. Too much caffeine can cause problems like insomnia and restlessness.