Reminders about Caffeine and You

February 21, 2025

Written by UConn Dietetics Masters student Mercedes Arroyo

Caffeine is the most widely consumed drug in the world. It is a dark antioxidant found in tea leaves, coffee beans, and cacao plants, and the foods that are usually prepared with it are coffees, teas, chocolates, soft drinks, and energy drinks. The coffee bean and the caffeine, during the roasting process, contribute healthy antioxidants to the brew. Caffeine has no nutritional value.

Facts about Caffeine:

  • Caffeine is a stimulant and produces an effect on the brain and nervous system.
  • Caffeine increases alertness, energy, and focus.
  • Caffeine increases our physical and mental performance.
  • Caffeine can be good for your health; its antioxidants can help protect against diseases. 1
  • Caffeine can be found in diverse products like lollipops, chewing gum, and brownies.

Myths vs Facts about Caffeine:

  • Myth: Too much caffeine can be addictive. Reality: Healthy adults can consume up to 400 mg per day without developing negative effects.2
  • Myth: Caffeine keeps you awake all night. Reality: For many people, drinking one or two cups of a caffeinated beverage up to six hours before going to bed will not affect their sleep time..3
  • Myth: Intake of caffeine will dehydrate you. Reality: moderate amounts between 250-400 mg will not increase urine volume.4
  • Myth: Caffeine will help you lose weight. Reality: Even though it may increase metabolism, there is no evidence that caffeine helps you to lose weight.5

References:

  1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coffee-worlds-biggest-source-of-antioxidants
  2. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much#:~:text=For%20most%20adults%2C%20the%20FDA,eliminate%20it%20from%20the%20body.
  3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3805807/pdf/jcsm.9.11.1195.pdf
  4. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/does-coffee-dehydrate-you
  5. https://www.webmd.com/diet/caffeine-myths-and-facts

 

This material was funded by USDA’S Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.