Coffee is one of the most consumed products on the planet. However, for many of us, it’s not the flavors or health benefits that makes it so popular. It’s the caffeine. But what really, is this beloved, energizing substance?
What is Caffeine?
Quite simply, caffeine is a natural stimulant made up of various chemicals. It’s chemical makeup is C8H10N4O2, and it is produced by a number of different plants as a pesticide, to repel potentially harmful insects.
Many people start everyday with a cup or two of caffeine-rich coffee, yet too much caffeine may lead to negative side effects. For example, an excess of caffeine is linked to complications like insomnia, heartburn, and muscle tremors.
That’s why it’s recommended to not exceed 400 milligrams of caffeine (roughly four cups of coffee) everyday. It’s also important to note that the amount of caffeine greatly varies between different beverages and foods.
What Contains Caffeine?
Caffeine is found in several popular plants such as coffee bean seeds, cacao bean seeds, and tea leaves and buds. The amount of caffeine in coffee and tea drinks varies greatly depending on factors like brewing time, temperature, and coffee/tea type.
On average, a six-ounce cup of coffee contains 110 mg of caffeine, a shot of espresso contains 75 mg of caffeine, a seven-ounce cup of black tea has 86 mg of caffeine, and a seven-ounce cup of green tea has roughly 58 mg of caffeine. Other common items that include caffeine are energy and soft drinks, chocolate, and several over-the-counter drugs, like allergy medications.
Does Caffeine Have Any Health Benefits?
According to several studies, as long as you keep your daily intake of caffeine below 400 mg, it can actually be beneficial to your health. There are a large amount of surprising health benefits that comes with consistent caffeine consumption. These include decreasing the risk of diabetes, enhancing memory, and stimulating hair growth.
Beyond caffeine, there are a number of other beneficial compounds in coffee. So more than being just a pick-me-up, coffee can be an important source of healthful compounds like antioxidants and polyphenols.