How does the caffeine in my daily coffee affect my body?

Clarifying Caffeine



Q: Other than acting as a diuretic, how does the caffeine in my daily coffee affect my body and diet plan?

A: Caffeine in moderation doesn't appear to have any potential health risks. For most healthy adults, 200-300 mg of caffeine per day appears to be fine; this equates to 2-3 cups of coffee. Caffeine may have a diuretic effect but the fluid you obtain through the beverage most often negates any loss of fluid due to the caffeine.

Too much caffeine may affect bone health (though moderate amounts don't appear to raise risk of osteoporosis), so add some fat-free or low-fat milk to your caffeinated beverages for a calcium boost. Some are caffeine-sensitive and may feel jittery or have difficulty sleeping. Caffeine may also cause a short-term increase in heart rate, though it does not build up in the body so such effects won't last long. Some things to consider:

• go easy on caffeine if you are pregnant or nursing
• discuss caffeine recommendations with your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications
• caffeine may aggravate heartburn
• be aware of extra calories from many caffeinated beverages (the added creams, sugars, and syrups can lead to an increase in calories in a snap)

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Jennifer May, M.S., R.D., M.S. is the Manager of Nutrition Services for DietWatch. Jennifer holds two master's degrees from Indiana University, one in nutrition science and one in exercise physiology. Jennifer has taught nutrition and biology at the university level, and has provided nutrition and fitness counseling and coaching for individuals, medical facilities, health organizations, and schools. She has produced educational materials and has appeared frequently on radio and television.