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How Much Coffee is Safe?
Dear Heather:
Can you tell me how much coffee is safe to drink in a day. I’ve read that some caffeine is okay and may even have health benefits. I know that too much caffeine is unhealthy, but how much is too much because I’m not willing to give up my morning cup of coffee. I’d love to hear your advice!
Thank you,
Dennis V., South Carolina
Dear Dennis:
Millions of us could not function if it wasn’t for that morning cup of coffee! Like it or not caffeine if one of the most addictive substances we can get our hands on – just ask the NCAA who considers caffeine a performance enhancing drug. If the thought of giving up that morning cup gives you the jitters, don’t panic. Caffeine in moderation (no more than 2 cups / day) may actually have some health benefits. Aside from stimulating your brain and giving you a much energy boost, caffeine may reduce your risk for kidney and gallstones.
Every wonder how much caffeine you’re ACTUALLY consuming? Check out our table below, where we least a variety of products with your caffeine content!
| PRODUCT | SERVING SIZE | CAFFEINE (mg) |
| Coffee (Brewed) | 8 oz | 135 mg |
| Coffee (Instant) | 8 oz | 95 mg |
| Coffee (Starbucks) | Grande (16 oz) | 550 mg |
| Caffe Latte (Starbucks) | Tall (12 oz) | 70 mg |
| Tea (Leaf or Bag) | 8 oz | 50 mg |
| Tea (Instant Iced Tea) | 8 oz | 15 mg |
| Mountain Dew | 12 oz | 55 mg |
| Coke / Diet Coke | 12 oz | 45 mg |
| Caffeinated Water | 16 oz | 125 mg |
| Coffee Ice Cream | 1 Cup | 40 – 85 mg |
| Coffee Yogurt | 8 oz | 45 mg |
| Hershey’s Dark Chocolate | 1 Bar | 31 mg |
Just like everything else, moderation is the key to caffeine intake. Too much caffeine can cause: indigestion, nausea, irregular heartbeat, nervousness, tremors and light-headedness.
So enjoy your daily cup or two of coffee without feeling guilty, but try not to over indulge! Avoid even small amounts of caffeine if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or suffer from high blood pressure.
Sincerely, Heather Campanile, RD
November 7, 2005 in Weight Loss Q&A | Permalink
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hmm.. funny )
Posted by: adulgabe | May 6, 2009 6:43:07 PM
I should notify you about it.
Posted by: Spactesse | May 23, 2009 12:21:53 AM
any news coming ?
Posted by: bralialia | Jun 8, 2009 2:03:13 AM