For most healthy adults, moderate coffee consumption is generally considered safe and may even offer some health benefits.
The general guideline from organizations like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggests that consuming up to 400 mg of caffeine per day, which is roughly equivalent to about 4 cups of brewed coffee, is unlikely to cause negative health effects for most people.
But there are also a few things to remember.
Some individuals are more sensitive to caffeine than others.
Some people may experience negative effects like jitters, restlessness, or sleep disturbances even with relatively low caffeine intake.
People with certain health conditions, such as heart problems, anxiety disorders, or certain gastrointestinal issues, may need to limit their caffeine intake more than others.
It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Pregnant individuals are often advised to limit their caffeine intake.
The guidelines for pregnancy may recommend consuming no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day.
For children and adolescents, lower caffeine intake is generally recommended due to their smaller body size and potential for heightened sensitivity to caffeine's effects.
Caffeine can interfere with sleep, so it's a good idea to avoid consuming coffee close to bedtime.
Remember that caffeine is a diuretic, which means it can contribute to dehydration if consumed in excess.