Coffee should be enjoyed responsibly; its many benefits aside. Too much caffeine may have adverse side effects; so how do you determine an acceptable daily limit?

According to the USFDA, an 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains between 80-100 mg of caffeine; this equates to three to five cups daily or 400-600 mg per day. Caffeine is an all-natural stimulant which can improve mood while increasing alertness and physical performance; additionally it acts as a diuretic, increasing fluid excretion from urine. Thus it is wise to take caffeine in moderation so as not to exceed safe daily limits.

Too much caffeine may not only leave you jittery and nervous, but there are additional side effects you should be wary of. Too much caffeine can interfere with sleep, make you dehydrated, cause heartburn and interact with some medications such as SSRIs and neuroleptics; for this reason it’s always wise to speak to a healthcare provider before beginning a new supplement like caffeine.

Studies have demonstrated that drinking two to five cups of coffee daily can extend lifespan and decrease cardiovascular disease risk, as well as diabetes, some cancers, and suicide risk. But is coffee consumption beneficial to all its fans? No; those sensitive to caffeine, pregnant, or with certain medical conditions should limit or discontinue consumption entirely.

As for adults, in general three to four cups of coffee daily may have no adverse consequences – this amount was found to be most effective in terms of lowering cardiovascular disease risk and mortality risk.

Your choice of coffee will have an enormous influence on its overall health. From bean type and roast method to preparation can affect its caffeine content. A black americano with no added sugar may contain less than one tablespoon of calories; on the other hand, a large salted caramel mocha could contain over 500 and have nearly twice the caffeine of plain joe!

At its core, unsweetened coffee is the healthiest coffee choice. Monitor other sources of caffeine such as tea, chocolate, energy drinks and colas while consulting your healthcare provider about incorporating coffee into a balanced diet. Determining how much coffee is healthy depends on individual circumstances – consulting with a registered dietitian may assist in this regard to find what’s appropriate.