Moms And Caffeine: How Much Is Too Much?

Caffeine is a part of many moms’ daily routines. Whether we get it from coffee, soda, energy drinks, or supplements, it’s everywhere. But how much caffeine is too much? If you’re a three-cup-a-day coffee drinker or someone who likes a few diet sodas, are you putting your health at risk? The U.S. Food & Drug Administration suggests the average adult stick to about 400 milligrams of caffeine per day. You can mix the types of caffeine you consume, but be aware that if you drink all day and don’t stick to just water, it can affect your health.

Per the FDA, 12 oz of liquid can contain varying amounts of caffeine. Here are a few examples.

Caffeinated Soft Drinks	23 to 83 milligrams
Green Tea	37 milligrams
Black Tea	71 milligrams
Regular Non Specialty Coffee	113 to 247 milligrams
Energy Drinks	41 to 246 milligrams

It’s also important to note that caffeine isn’t only in what we drink. Foods also contain caffeine, albeit likely in smaller amounts. According to the FDA, food products do not necessarily have to list the amount of caffeine on the label, but they must list caffeinated ingredients, such as chocolate.

By Wix

“By law, food companies are responsible for making sure any use of caffeine in their products is safe. Caffeine, like any substance added to food, must be safe under the conditions it’s expected to be used, including the amount expected to be consumed,” the FDA notes.

Too much caffeine can cause an array of symptoms like anxiety, headache, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, increased heart rate, insomnia or disrupted sleep, jitters, nausea, and upset stomach.

By Wix

As with anything we consume, moderation is best. The FDA recommends against the cold turkey method for lowering caffeine consumption.

“If you’re used to drinking caffeine-containing beverages every day, and want to cut back, it’s best to do so gradually. Caffeine withdrawal isn’t considered dangerous but can be unpleasant,” the FDA explains.

Always consult your physician before making any changes to your diet to ensure you’re doing it in the safest manner for you.