How Much Caffeine is in Your Daily Coffee?
Coffee is the most popular source of caffeine worldwide. But how much of this stimulant is actually in your average cup of coffee? The amount can vary based on the type of coffee and serving size. Let’s break down the typical caffeine levels found in coffee drinks.
Caffeine Content by Coffee Type
The caffeine content depends first on the type of coffee bean. Arabica coffee, the most popular variety, generally contains about half as much caffeine as robusta coffee.
On average, a typical cup contains:
- Arabica coffee: 80-150mg caffeine
- Robusta coffee: 140-200mg caffeine
An espresso shot is generally 1oz and contains roughly 63mg of caffeine with a robusta blend and 40mg with an arabica.
Caffeine by Serving Size
Serving size greatly impacts overall caffeine intake from coffee:
- Shot of espresso: 40-75mg
- 8oz coffee: 80-100mg
- 12oz coffee: 120-150mg
- 16oz coffee: 160-200mg
Factors like brew method and roast level also cause variation in caffeine levels. But generally speaking, larger coffee sizes bring higher caffeine content.
Capping Your Intake
Health experts recommend capping your daily caffeine intake at 400mg. Too much can lead to anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, and irregular heartbeat.
Pregnant women are advised to limit caffeine to 200mg per day. People with certain medical conditions may need to restrict intake as well.
Knowledge of average caffeine ranges helps coffee lovers monitor their consumption. Be aware of servings and portion control to strike the right balance of coffee’s energizing benefits.