If you’re anything like me, you’re probably a little bit addicted to coffee. Even if I’ve had a good night’s sleep, I find myself reaching for the kettle to get me through a long Zoom meeting or give me an extra burst of energy to get a report done. Though caffeine is helpful, you can actually overdo it. It is, after all, a stimulant, and there are some things to take into consideration:

1. Caffeine isn’t healthy for everyone. Children, pregnant women, people with heart disease/high blood pressure and people on anti-anxiety medication should avoid caffeine.

2. Caffeine is safe for most people in moderation, however a healthy, average adult shouldn’t consume more than 400mg of caffeine a day.

3. Caffeine (if too much is taken) can cause a range of side effects. These can include anxiety (as caffeine stimulates the nervous system and can cause jitters), insomnia (especially if caffeine is taken in the afternoon/evening), racing heart, dehydration, high blood pressure, heartburn and stomach problems (caffeine can agitate the production of stomach acid) and caffeine withdrawals.

If you feel that you may be drinking too much caffeine, try cutting back gradually over a few weeks. To boost energy levels, make sure you’re getting enough sleep, exercise, and you’re eating plenty of protein, complex carbohydrates (as opposed to simple sugars) and mineral-rich vegetables.

How much caffeine do you drink per day? Tell us in the comments!