If you need that daily caffeine fix, you should know how much is in your average cup. Coffee has a naturally occurring amount of caffeine in each cup that helps countless people around the world perk up each day! From espresso to energy drinks, you will be surprised to hear which have more or less than you expected. For example, did you know espresso drinks like lattes typically have less caffeine than the average cup of drip coffee?
Caffeine stimulates your central nervous system, which can make you feel more awake, give you energy, and increase your blood pressure. It can enhance your reaction times, mood, and mental performance. The stimulate peaks within one hour and you could continue to feel the effects for four to six hours later. Caffeine is an adenosine receptor antagonist, which is a scientific way of saying it makes you feel more awake and can make it harder to fall asleep depending on when you last consumed the drink.
One important difference between coffee/tea and soda/energy drinks is how caffeine is included in that beverage. Coffee and tea have the naturally occurring stimulate, while soda and energy drinks are often artificially caffeinated. Note, Kola nuts are another naturally caffeinated ingredient that is used in some sodas. When adding caffeine to a beverage, the amount can vary from one brand or drink to another. Always be aware of the drink you consume and know the specific amount of caffeine in that beverage.
Are you wondering how much caffeine is in decaffeinated coffee? Learn more here!
Coffee
- Cup of Drip or Pour-over Coffee – 200-300mg of caffeine per 16oz
- Espresso (including latte, cappuccino, etc.) – 150mg per 2oz of espresso
Tea
- Green Tea – 60mg per 16oz
- Black Tea – 100mg per 16oz
Soda
- 35-55mg per 12oz (can)
Energy Drink
- 160mg per 16oz
Sources: Medline Plus – Caffeine and Center, Center for Science in the Public Interest – Caffeine Chart, and Sleep Education - Sleep and Caffeine
