In general, we recommend staying within 12-18 oz of a caffeinated beverage per day. This should keep caffeine to no more than 300-400 mg per day (1 – 6 oz cup of coffee has 120 mg of caffeine) and hopefully keep side effects at bay. Obviously try to keep on the lower end of that recommended range.

 

When caffeine intake is too high, severe problems can result. Typically people come in seeking answers for a rise in blood pressure and heart palpitations or complaints of dizziness, dehydration, nausea, bloating, constipation, jitters, insomnia or general digestive discomfort. While coffee and tea may be safer vehicles for caffeine intake in moderate amounts, energy drinks and pills are not.

 

Coffee and tea could be fine options within 12-18 oz, but there is never a good replacement for water! Be sure to include plenty of that every day as well.

 

Adapted from a blogpost written by: Emily Fonnesbeck RD,CD