Most of us start our day with a cup of coffee or tea. But do you know that caffeine levels can vary widely between drinks? Comparing caffeine in tea, coffee, and soda and knowing what affects caffeine content can help you make smarter choices. In this article, we will discuss the recommended dosage and understand the caffeine content in different types of coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks.
Caffeine is considered safe for most adults in moderate amounts. Here is the recommended quantity:
• For adults: Up to 400 mg per day (around 4 cups of brewed coffee) is safe.
• For pregnant women: Up to 200 mg per day.
• Children and teens: Up to 100 mg per day.
• Insomnia or disturbed sleep makes it harder to feel rested.
• Nervousness, jitteriness, or a rapid heartbeat. It can also make you feel unsettled.
• Upset stomach or nausea can also occur if you have caffeine on an empty stomach.
• It can worsen existing heart conditions by raising blood pressure or triggering irregular rhythms.
• The symptoms of anxiety disorder can intensify and cause frequent panic or restlessness.
Hence, it is important to control the amount of caffeine you consume and prevent any adverse situation. For the situations you cannot prevent, it is best to have a health insurance plan with a wide scope of coverage.
Not every cup of tea or coffee contains the same amount of caffeine. There are several other factors, such as:
• Type of bean or leaf: Arabica beans are milder in flavour as compared to robusta coffee beans, which have almost twice as much caffeine. Similarly, black tea leaves carry higher caffeine than green or white teas.
• Brewing method: The way you brew matters. Espresso has a higher caffeine concentration per millilitre. However, since the serving is smaller, a typical cup contains less total caffeine than a standard mug of drip-brewed coffee. Longer brewing time and hotter water also extract more caffeine from tea leaves.
• Serving size: A small home mug may seem similar to a large coffee shop cup. However, many cafe servings are 350-475 ml or more. So, it can double or triple your caffeine intake in one sitting.
• Brand and preparation: Generally, instant coffee has less caffeine than freshly brewed coffee. Some speciality teas, like matcha or Yerba mate, naturally contain more caffeine than typical supermarket blends.
Based on these factors, you can select between the various caffeinated drinks to control your caffeine consumption. Additionally, remember to have cashless health insurance to combat any health issues that you might face.
Coffee is one of the biggest sources of caffeine across the world. So, here are some typical figures:
• Brewed coffee (240 ml): About 96 mg.
• Espresso (30 ml): Around 63 mg.
• Instant coffee (240 ml): Roughly 60 mg.
• Decaf coffee (240 ml): Still has 2-5 mg.
The caffeine content also depends on the roast type. For example, darker roasts may taste stronger but have slightly less caffeine than lighter roasts.
When comparing caffeine in tea vs coffee, tea usually has less caffeine:
• Black tea (240 ml): Roughly 40-70 mg.
• Green tea (240 ml): About 20-45 mg.
• Oolong tea (240 ml): Around 30-50 mg.
• White tea (240 ml): About 15-30 mg.
• Herbal teas: Typically caffeine-free. However, there are exceptions, like Yerba mate.
Brewing time and temperature can double the caffeine content. So, the longer and hotter the brew, the stronger the tea.
Sodas have a significant amount of caffeine:
• Cola: About 30-40 mg per 355 ml.
• Diet cola: Similar to cola or slightly higher.
• Other flavoured sodas can vary widely. Some have none.
Energy drinks often contain concentrated caffeine as well as other stimulants:
• Typical can (8 oz): 70-100 mg.
• Large cans (16 oz): 140-200 mg or more.
• Added ingredients: Guarana, Yerba mate, or green tea extract can also increase the stimulant effects.
You can follow some mindful steps to keep caffeine as a helpful boost rather than a hidden risk. Here is what can make a real difference:
Make sure to include all sources like coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate, and even some pain relievers that contain caffeine.
After midday, you can switch to green tea or herbal infusion. This can help protect your sleep quality and reduce evening restlessness.
Portion size alone can double or triple your caffeine intake without you even realising.
Do this especially for energy drinks or supplements, as they can have added ingredients that can increase the caffeine content.
If you have anxiety, insomnia, or high blood pressure, then talk to your doctor about safe caffeine limits.
Tracking your caffeine intake can help you enjoy the benefits without unwanted side effects. However, if you do experience symptoms that affect your well-being, such as persistent heart palpitations, chest discomfort, or sleep disorders, it’s important to seek medical advice. Having health insurance in place can offer added peace of mind. It helps cover consultations, diagnostic tests, or emergency visits that may arise from caffeine-related concerns.
One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.
Sources: mayoclinic.org, augustahealth.com, coffeebros.com, cspi.org, thespruceeats.com
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.
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Published on August 7, 2025