How Much Coffee Can I Drink a Day?
Coffee is a go-to morning (or all-day) pick-me-up for many, but how much is too much?
The amount of coffee you can safely drink depends on your tolerance and overall health, but a good rule of thumb is to limit your caffeine intake to 350 mg a day. That’s roughly equivalent to 3-4 cups of brewed coffee, depending on the strength. This is a maximum recommendation—if you’re good with just 1-2 cups a day, that’s even better for maintaining balance and avoiding caffeine dependence.
Excessive caffeine can lead to jitters, disrupted sleep, increased heart rate, and even dehydration. While coffee is a liquid, it doesn’t count as water intake. This is because caffeine acts as a diuretic, meaning it makes you lose water through increased urination. So while it can temporarily hydrate, it doesn’t contribute to your daily water needs in the same way plain water does.
Stick to your caffeine limit, and aim to balance your coffee habit with plenty of water throughout the day. Whether you’re a one-cup wonder or enjoy a couple of cups, your body—and your energy levels—will thank you!
