QUESTION:

Can Caffeine be Consumed Safely?

ANSWER:

It is safe for adults to consume caffeine, as long as it is consumed in moderation, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

To keep caffeine at safe levels in the body, doctors recommend limiting intake to no more than 200 mg per day, according to the FDA. Two 5-ounce cups of coffee contains about 200 mg of caffeine, for example.

Every person is different, however, so a lesser amount of caffeine might be a better fit for you. Also, women who are pregnant, breastfeeding and children should be even more cautious of the amount of caffeine they consume, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

If you are consuming too much caffeine, try to cut back slowly because caffeine can cause withdrawal symptoms, including headache, tiredness and depression, according to the FDA.

Talk to your doctor for more information about caffeine safety.