Spilling the beans on caffeine consumption

June 18, 2021

Providence Nutrition Team

Key takeaways:

Caffeine is a stimulant that occurs naturally in more than 60 plants.
Caffeine affects chemicals in your brain and stimulates your nervous system to reduce tiredness and keep you awake.
FDA guidelines say up to four 8 oz. cups of coffee are safe for most healthy adults to consume every day.

[2 MIN READ]

The pandemic ushered in many lifestyle changes as a large number of us began working remotely, sheltered in place or made other modifications to our daily routines. We kept a firm grip on our coffee cups throughout it all, according to research released recently from the National Coffee Association.

Restrictions may have slowed down business at the local coffee shop, but that didn’t stop us from getting our daily caffeine fix. Nearly 85% of coffee drinkers report they have at least one cup of coffee a day at home with most enjoying a second cup. Consumption is also rising as people turn to caffeine to help battle pandemic fatigue and burnout.

For many people, caffeine is an integral part of the day. It’s a quick pick-me-up in the morning or a way to boost energy during an afternoon slump. But what is it? And how is it affecting your health?

Our “What You Drink” series helps answer those questions. The first article in the series took a good look at the amount of liquid sugar hiding in your favorite beverages. This month we spill the beans about caffeine and its effect on your health.

Does #caffeine play a prominent role in your daily routine? Share how your habits have changed during the pandemic with readers @providence.

Infographic sources

Coffee, decaffeinated coffee, and tea consumption in relation to incident type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Caffeine intake and dementia: systematic review and meta-analysis

Coffee, cirrhosis, and transaminase enzymes

Coffee and caffeine consumption and depression: A meta-analysis of observational studies

The impact of caffeine on mood, cognitive function, performance and hydration: a review of benefits and risks

Find a doctor

The nutrition specialists at Providence can help you identify the caffeine in your diet and whether you’re consuming healthy amounts. Through Providence Express Care Virtual, you can access a full range of healthcare services. If you need to find a doctor, you can use our provider directory.