How Much Caffeine Is Too Much?

Both Kristi & I start our day with a lil caffeine something or other. For me it is usualy a medium roast coffee, Kristi has a little more variety to her more drink of choice, it could be a coffee, an energy drink, or whatever strikes her fancy that morning.

I know back in the day when I drank several energy drinks in the morning, it was a bit much. Today, I am usually good for one, maybe two cups of coffee but, it does make me wonder.....how much caffeine is too much?

The short answer: 400 milligrams of caffeine per day is safe for most people, which is the equivalent of about four cups of coffee, according to emergency room physician Robert Glatter, M.D. as reported by USA Today.

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that works by stimulating the brain, according to Drugs.com. That said, the effects of caffeine do vary from person to person so for some 250 milligrams (2.5 cups of coffee) might be enough to experience "caffeine intoxication". However, most of us according to Dr Glatter would need 500 milligrams of caffeine to feel such symptoms, which can include heart palpitations, dizziness, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, muscle tremors, frequent urination, nervousness, anxiety, restlessness, diarrhea and stomach upset.

So what does this leave us with? Experts say be smart and follow these caffeine rules:

Never mix caffeine with alcohol because it can lead to higher levels of alcohol consumption.
Restrict your caffeine consumption if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Read prescription medication labels and warnings carefully, as some medicines may interact with caffeine.
Do not use caffeine as a substitute for sleep.

Maybe I'll just have a beer instead, I'm kidding...sort of.