Caffeine
Tuesday November 27, 2007
Many of us indulge in a daily dose of caffeine, whether we drink coffee, tea or an energy drink to help us get going in the morning. One of About Nutrition's readers wants to know how much caffeine is safe. Do you drink coffee, tea or energy drinks? Want to know what happens if you get too much caffeine? Find out how much caffeine is safe.
Poll: What is your favorite form of caffeine?
- I avoid caffeine.
- Coffee.
- Tea.
- Chocolate.
- Energy drinks.
- Colas or other caffeinated soft drinks.
- View Poll Results
Photo © Allison Choppick
Comments
Hi.
Although drinking coffee has some disadvantages, it also can be an advantage as you get older. Did you know coffee helps you retain better mental functions as you get older, especially if you are over 80?
Kindest regards,
Mark
Caffeine is a rather safe substance. Having said that, your body will let you know when you’ve had too much to drink or eat. Typically, most people can consume 3-5 cups(coffee) a day, and more if they are drinking tea. Coffee also takes about 3 hours to metabolize out of the body, so if you space out your consumption throughout the day, you’ll have less chance of getting the jitters. Also, caffeine is never comparable to sleep when it comes to more energy. So if your not getting 7-8 hours at night, and you are drinking more coffee than neccessary to compensate, you should reaally lay off and get the right amount of sleep. I personally don’t add sugar to my coffee or tea, because caffeine already raises your blood sugar on its own. Caffeine in tea also have nutrients and antioxidants that other food and drinks do not have, so it is a good way to cash in on their benefits by drinking them instead of soda or stupid energy drinks.