Caffeine is a stimulant for the nervous system. It increases alertness and energy levels, reaching peak levels in the blood about 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Each person's response to caffeine varies, and pregnant women or those who have trouble sleeping should be cautious about how much caffeine they consume and when. They may want to avoid it altogether.
When does the effect of caffeine wear off? The half-life of caffeine is about 5 hours. A person who consumes 40 mg of caffeine will have 20 mg remaining in their body after 5 hours. There is no specific time frame for the effects of caffeine, as the duration depends on dosage and individual factors, including age, body weight, and sensitivity to caffeine.
Many products contain caffeine, and here are some amounts found in various items:
- Coffee: 95 mg
- Espresso: 64 mg
- Tea: 47 mg
- Soda: 45 mg
- Energy drink: 158 mg
- Milk chocolate bar: 9 mg
Most adults can safely consume 200 to 400 mg per day, and exceeding this amount may lead to sleep problems. Those who are sensitive to caffeine should be careful since it is present in many products. On the other hand, for some, drinking more coffee may lead to the body becoming accustomed to caffeine, reducing its effects and increasing the need for higher consumption over time.