How do you start your day? If you said with caffeine you wouldn’t be alone! Caffeine found in tea/coffee/soft drink/chocolate and energy drinks is a stimulant that acts on the brain and nervous system. Following the moderate consumption of caffeine and for the 90 minutes after consumption it may make you feel alert and energised. Excessive consumption on the other hand may make you feel anxious or result in difficulty sleeping.
How is safe consumption of caffeine defined? According to Food Standards ANZ safe consumption of caffeine does not exceed 400mg/day or 200mg/serve.
- The average espresso contains 145mg of caffeine
- Instant coffee contains 80mg/teaspoon
- Energy drinks contain 80mg/250ml
- Black tea 50mg/220ml
It is also worth noting that there are specific recommendations in relation to caffeine consumption for some individuals:
- Pregnant women – caffeine intake should be limited to 200mg/day
- Children – at the present time there are no guidelines for caffeine consumption, however research has found that anxiety can be related to caffeine consumption of 3mg/kilo of a child’s bodyweight.
Hopefully now you’re familiar with a safe intake of caffeine and you can get back to enjoying your coffee!
