Caffeine and energy-boosting drugs

Caffeine Content

Originally Published: October 25, 1996 ~ Last Updated / Reviewed on: October 26, 2007

          

 

Dear Alice,

Obscure questions about caffeine: relative to each other, how much caffeine is there in: (1) your average chocolate bar, (2) your average cup of coffee, and (3) your average soda pop (12 oz)?

Thanks!

 

Dear Reader,

First, some background information: Caffeine is a natural substance that exists in over 60 plant species worldwide, including coffee and cocoa beans, tea leaves, and kola nuts. A potent stimulant, caffeine is consumed by an estimated 90 percent of the world's population. A moderate amount of caffeine is considered to be between 200 and 300 milligrams (mg) per day. Individuals with existing medical conditions and pregnant women should consider restricting or eliminating caffeine and address concerns with their health care provider. Dependence on caffeine is sometimes referred to as "caffeinism," and, as with any substance, tolerance can develop. Individuals who try to reduce their use may experience withdrawal symptoms including headache, fatigue, or drowsiness.

As caffeinated energy drinks continue to increase in popularity and use, many health professionals and even some public school officials have expressed concerns over possible side effects. College students and others have suffered severe consequences when combining energy drinks and alcohol or using the drink in place of water when exercising or in hot weather. The amount of caffeine in the products listed below varies greatly, and manufacturers are currently only required to list a presence of the substance, not the amount. If you have questions about specific brands, you can often check the product website for more detail.

Product	Caffeine (in milligrams)
Coffee [1 cup (8 oz.): brewed, dripped, percolated]	135
Coffee [1 cup: instant]	95
Espresso, [1 oz]	30-50
Flavored coffee [8 oz]	25-100
Black tea [8 oz]	40-70
Green tea [8 oz]	25-40
Soda [12 oz: best to check each brand with manufacturer]	22-55
Milk chocolate [1 oz]*	1-15
Dark chocolate [1 oz]*	5-35
White chocolate [1 oz]	0
Energy drinks [~8 oz]	75-80
Caffeinated gum [1 piece]	5-100

Source: The Mayo Clinic. Except *, from March of Dimes.

Now whether you're looking for a mild pick-me-up or a jolt of energy, you can choose your caffeine source accordingly. Enjoy (in moderation)!

Alice

Related Q&As

Gourmet coffee talk: What's their calorie and fat content?

Is decaffeinated coffee safe to drink?

Grapefruit juice and coffee

Guarana vs. caffeine?

Chocolate — good or bad?

Can caffeine make social anxiety worse?

Coffee stunts growth?

Respond to this Q & A
		Send this page to a friend