At Counter Coffee, we're passionate about providing our customers with the perfect cup of coffee, tailored to their individual needs and preferences. That's why we've made it our mission to help you understand the intricacies of caffeine and how to calculate your daily intake.
The Science Behind Caffeine Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant found in various plants, including coffee beans, tea leaves, and cocoa beans. When consumed, it interacts with the body's central nervous system, blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that normally promotes sleep and relaxation. This, in turn, leads to increased alertness, improved focus, and a temporary boost in energy levels.
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the recommended daily caffeine intake for adults is up to 400 milligrams (mg) per day. However, this can vary depending on factors such as age, weight, and individual sensitivity to caffeine. For children and adolescents, the recommended daily limit is lower, ranging from 3 mg per kilogram (kg) of body weight for younger children to 2.5 mg per kg for adolescents.
Calculating Your Caffeine Intake
Knowing the caffeine content of your favourite beverages is crucial for managing your daily intake. The amount of caffeine in coffee can vary significantly, depending on factors such as the type of coffee bean, the roasting process, and the brewing method. For example, a typical 240ml cup of brewed coffee can contain anywhere from 95 to 165 mg of caffeine, while a shot of espresso can have around 63 mg.
Counter Coffee makes knowing the caffeine levels easy as we have had all our coffees tested at an independent lab and make the caffeine levels easy to find and understand.
Our caffeine levels are calculated by weight of the coffee used.
- For a single espresso that is 7 grams or 1.5 heaped tablespoons.
- For a double espresso that is 18 grams or roughly 4 heaped tablespoons.
- For a filter coffee that is 14 grams or 3 heaped tablespoons.
If you choose to alter the amount of coffee used per drink served then you can adjust the calculation by taking the mg of caffeine and dividing it by the suggested grams above and then multiplying that by the grams you have used.
In the UK coffee and tea does not need to have had its caffeine levels tested. We want to change that at Counter Coffee.
Other caffeinated drinks, energy drinks, and soft drinks, do need to be labelled with the caffeine content so you can check the nutrition labels and be mindful of your consumption to ensure you're not exceeding the recommended daily limits.
Benefits and Risks of Caffeine Consumption
Moderate caffeine consumption has been associated with a range of health benefits, including improved cognitive function, enhanced athletic performance, and reduced risk of certain chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease. However, excessive caffeine intake can lead to adverse effects, such as anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and even heart palpitations.
At Counter Coffee, we understand the importance of balancing the benefits and risks of caffeine consumption. That's why we've carefully sourced and roasted and tested our coffee beans to ensure that each cup delivers a consistent amount of caffeine, tailored to your individual needs. By testing the caffeine levels in our coffee, we can help you make informed choices and enjoy the full benefits of your coffee experience.
Managing Your Caffeine Intake
To help you manage your caffeine intake, we recommend starting your day with a cup of our Caffeine Conscious Coffee, which provides a moderate amount of caffeine to help you feel alert and focused without the jitters. If you're looking for a stronger boost, our High Octane Coffee might be the perfect choice. And for those who prefer a lower-caffeine option, our Decaf Coffee offers all the flavor without the added stimulant.
Remember, the key to enjoying the benefits of caffeine is to consume it in moderation and be mindful of your individual needs and sensitivities. By understanding the science behind caffeine and utilizing Counter Coffee's caffeine-conscious approach, you can strike the perfect balance and make the most of your coffee experience.