Caffeine is a stimulant that increases the activities in the brain and nervous system while also boosting the circulation of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Besides coffee, many other drinks also contain caffeine, including tea, chocolate beverages, sodas, and energy drinks. Each offers different amounts of caffeine yet can produce effects similar to coffee.

How Caffeine Works in the Body

Taken in moderate amounts, caffeine can help you feel more awake and improve focus. It is no surprise that caffeinated drinks like coffee are among the most popular choices to start the morning.

Caffeine is absorbed quickly, and the alert sensation often appears within about 5-30 minutes after your consumption. Once the caffeine is inside the body, you may notice faster breathes, increased heart rates, sharper alertness, and increased physical energy. These effects can last up to 12 hours or longer, depending on a person’s usual caffeine intake and tolerance.

Estimated Caffeine Content per Serving

How your body responds to caffeine is shaped by body mass, overall health, metabolism, and your personal tolerance, which is influenced by regular caffeine habits. For most adults, a general upper limit often cited is about 400 mg per day or less to stay within a range that helps avoid unwanted side effects.

Below are approximate caffeine amounts in common beverages:

• Chocolate drinks contain 5–10 mg of caffeine per 250 ml.
• Instant coffee contains 80–120 mg of caffeine per 250 ml.
• Drip coffee contains 150–240 mg of caffeine per 250 ml.
• Espresso coffee contains 105–110 mg of caffeine per 250 ml.
• Black tea contains 65–105 mg of caffeine per 250 ml.
• Cola drinks contain 40–49 mg of caffeine per 375 ml.
• Energy drinks like Red Bull contain 80 mg of caffeine per 250 ml.
• Other energy drinks contain 160 mg of caffeine per 250 ml.

Can Pregnant Women Consume Caffeinated Drinks?

During pregnancy, it is best to be very cautious with caffeinated beverages. Caffeine can cross the placenta, and the fetus does not yet have the enzymes needed to break it down. Caffeine may also influence fetal sleep patterns and movement while in the womb.

Keep in mind that caffeine can cause several immediate effects, such as:

• Increased blood pressure

   

• Increased heart rate

   

• A diuretic effect that increases urination and may contribute to dehydration

In the long term, frequent high caffeine intake during pregnancy can be linked to:

• Fetal defects

   

• Premature birth

   

• Early labor

   

• Increased risk of low birth weight

   

• Increased risk of miscarriage

Some studies also suggest that regularly consuming large amounts of caffeinated drinks can make it harder to conceive. Remember that caffeine is not only in coffee; it is also present in tea, energy drinks, sodas, chocolate, and similar products. For safety, limit caffeinated beverages during pregnancy. Follow guidance referenced in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology on pregnancy caffeine limits: aim for a maximum of 150 mg per day, which is roughly one cup for many beverages. Consuming more than 200 mg per day can pose risks to your pregnancy and your baby. Protect your health during pregnancy by keeping daily caffeine intake within recommended limits.

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