Caffeine: Don’t Overdo It!

With spring break only a few weeks away it means you are most likely into the part of your class syllabi filled with midterm exams and reports. Many students will rely on caffeine during these times to stay awake longer in order to study all night. But depending on how much caffeine you are putting in your body, the results may not be all positive.

Beverage	Amount	Caffeine
Generic Brewed Coffee	8 oz.	95-200 mg
Starbucks Latte	8 oz.	75 mg
Starbucks Pikes Place	8 oz.	165 mg
Black Tea	8 oz.	14-61 mg
Coke or Diet Coke	12 oz.	30-47 mg
Sprite	12 oz.	0 mg
Red Bull	8.4 oz.	76-80 mg
5-Hour Energy	2 oz.	207 mg

Caffeine can be found in coffee, teas, energy drinks, soda, and chocolate. It can also be found in many supplements that are promoted to decrease drowsiness and allow you to feel more alert [See chart at right]. However, if you drink too much coffee or other caffeinated beverages throughout the day you will get that temporary boost you're looking for but you may also suffer from upset stomach, racing heart, jitters, and sleepless nights. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and you are drinking 500mg or more of caffeine you should consider cutting back on your intake.

Caffeine may give you a quick boost - but try not to overdo it! If you drink too many caffeinated beverages it may increase dehydration as these beverages may end up taking the place of water or other hydrating beverages. The best way to get through exam week is to stay focused on making healthy choices, such as getting plenty of sleep, staying physically active, and choosing healthy foods.

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Nutritionist Christine Clark works with Dining Services to provide you with tips and techniques to stay healthy during your time at Northeastern. If you have any further questions about this or any other nutrition or diet topic, such as food allergies or weight gain/loss, please contact her at christine.clark2@compass-usa.com.

Resource:

1. Mayo Clinic. "Caffeine content for coffee, tea, soda and more." http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/caffeine/AN01211