Caffeine Amounts in Coffee vs. Other Drinks

If you can’t imagine starting your day without that energizing caffeine buzz, you’re far from alone. In fact, according to the Journal of Food Science, over 80% of the worldwide adult population and a staggering 90% of North Americans consume some form of caffeine daily.

But exactly how much caffeine are you actually ingesting every day? Is it too much? Or maybe you can even squeeze in one more cup without going overboard.

And though many of us get that jolt from fresh-brewed coffee or an espresso-based drink, there are many other popular caffeinated beverage options as well. From traditional teas to fizzy energy drinks, how does the caffeine content of those drinks compare to coffee?

What is Caffeine?

So, what exactly is caffeine and why does it perk us up? Essentially, caffeine is an alkaloid stimulant naturally found in dozens of plants including coffee and tea. Humans have been using caffeine’s energizing powers for millennia—and likely for millennia to come.

Caffeine stimulates the brain and nervous system by blocking a neurochemical called adenosine. As adenosine levels built up during the day, the body registers this rise and triggers drowsiness.

However, caffeine prevents adenosine from entering your brain receptors. Not only can’t your body monitor these levels, but more energizing neurotransmitters like dopamine and burst through instead to wake us up and provide that beautiful buzz.

How Much Caffeine is in Coffee?

Unlike pre-made beverages like soft drinks, bottled iced teas, energy drinks, etc., brewed coffee and tea can vary wildly when it comes to caffeine content. This is because everything from roast type to brewing method can affect the final amount of caffeine in your cup. For example, cold brewed coffee typically contains significantly more caffeine than say, instant coffee.

But in general, your typical drip coffee will contain between 100–200 mg of caffeine per eight-ounce serving. Also, though minute, it’s important to note that decaf coffee does contain trace amounts of caffeine.

Am I Drinking Too Much Caffeine?

According to the FDA, most adults can safely consume up to about 400 mL daily of caffeine before potentially dangerous effects might kick in. This equates to about 4–5 cups or 32–48 ounces.

However, it’s important to remember that every body is different. Some coffee drinkers don’t need to get anywhere close to the danger zone to feel the adverse side effects of caffeine like jitters, insomnia, headaches or a rapid heart rate.

We all know that person who can drink coffee from morning until night and still sleep like a baby. Others consume a cup first thing in the morning and still feel it well into the afternoon. Whichever way your body personally processes caffeine, be sure to listen to it before pouring another cup or glass.

Caffeine Content in Popular Drinks

Curious about the exact breakdown of how much caffeine is in your favorite beverages? Here’s the amount of caffeine to expect in many popular drinks.

Caffeine Content in Coffee Drinks*

Caffeine Content in Tea Drinks*

Caffeine Content in Energy Drinks

Caffeine Content in Soft Drinks

*Statistics for brewed drinks are approximate

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