Last Updated on April 16, 2022 by Timothy Byron Smith
In the fast paced, chaotic world that we live in, a fix of caffeine has become the key to survival for most of us. Have deadlines and need to pull an all nighter? Caffeine! Need to freshen up in the morning? Caffeine! And the go-to for acquiring this caffeine dosage is obviously espresso. But how many shots of espresso is too much?
But espresso is so little in quantity. That’s what you were thinking right? Well, it may be consumed in shots of one ounce or two, however, this very fact makes it super easy to slip up and consume large amounts. Before you know it you will be gulping down shot after shots of espresso!
Now it’s also true that an espresso shot has way less caffeine compared to regular coffee. But consume it in large amounts and you can easily have an espresso overdose. Or rather a caffeine overdose which isn’t exactly ideal for your health. So, at what point do you stop?
Did You Know Espresso Could Be Healthy For You!
But Why and How is Espresso Healthy?
There is some good news before we get into the seriousness of the matter and how much caffeine is beneficial or bad for your health. There is always a silver lining to a situation. And here it shows up in the numerous advantages that espresso can give when drunk in moderation.
Unlike the usual coffee beans, the beans used to extract espresso are rich in nutrients like potassium and magnesium. They are also packed with other essentials such as antioxidants as well as fats and oils that are beneficial for the body. Plus, since espresso is made under strong pressure and without any filter, every last bit of nutrient is extracted into the drink!
Just imagine the health benefits a single shot of espresso alone could bring! However, it is important to keep in mind that here we are talking about raw espresso. No additives included like mil, sugar, or other syrups. Curious to know the benefits your morning drink brings you? Here they are!
- Reduces risk of diabetes: Certain nutrients in espresso improve the functioning of the hormone insulin and the gland that produces it. This makes the body better equipped at handling its sugars. Thus, reducing the risk of diabetes.
- Reduces heart problems: The antioxidants found in espresso prevent cholesterol molecules from clogging the arteries. This reduces blockages in the blood pathway, reducing the risk of heart diseases. However, consuming espresso excessively can have adverse effects on the heart too!
- Enhances Focus and Improves Memory: Consuming espresso in moderate amounts can stimulate the production of dopamine. This chemical in the body makes you motivated, determined, focused, and alert! Furthermore, it also enhances your mood, making you feel good about everything.
- Prevents the development of certain cancers: Some of the antioxidants in espresso literally fight for your body! They destroy dangerous substances to prevent cancer of the skin, colon, liver, and the pancreas.
- Keeps the stomach happy and clean: Espresso contains anti-inflammatory molecules that can really be helpful after a large meal. They keep the stomach from bloating and save you from any discomfort.
- Helps keep in shape: Yes espresso could help you lose weight! Raw espresso without any additives has only two calories. Also, the caffeine in it improves metabolism and makes you feel full for longer. This can help in reducing weight or keeping it intact.
All these benefits must be making you feel really good right now. That’s great! But remember, these benefits only accompany the consumption of espresso in MODERATE amounts.
How Many Shots of Espresso is Too Much?
You can easily have the best of both worlds if you only learn where to stop yourself. You can both enjoy your caffeine hits and reap its benefits by stopping yourself from overconsumption. But how do you know when you have had enough? We’ll tell you!
According to health professionals, the human body can safely tolerate four hundred milligrams of caffeine in a day. If you consume more than that, you are setting yourself up for some serious problems and health issues. It all depends on your body’s tolerance level. How long it will let you abuse it.
If you keep within this range (it is about four to five cups) then you are good to go. You’ll be consuming your cherished beverage without any negative effects. However, it is also important to pay attention to how your body is responding to it. If you feel four to five cups is still too much for you then reduce the amount.
How Much Caffeine a Single Shot of Espresso Has?
The most commonly accepted quantity of caffeine in a single shot of espresso is 63 milligrams. However, we would not suggest you blindly trust that. The caffeine content of espresso or any espresso based drink is influenced by several factors. It is, therefore, impossible to give an accurate number.
Coffee beans, for example, have a wide range of caffeine content. If you use Arabica beans, for example, the caffeine content will be different than if you use Robusta beans. Not to mention that the method of extraction, the pressure utilized, and the amount of caffeine extracted all have an impact on the caffeine concentration.
Finally, the caffeine content you consume will also differ depending on the size of the serving. A Venti will have a higher caffeine content than a Short. And a Trenta will have even higher caffeine content. Point being, you can never be too sure. But for the sake of knowing you can use the 63 milligrams and ounce reference.
Coffee VS Espresso: Which is Better?
Well, it really depends on your preferences and needs whether espresso or coffee is better for you. Taste wise, it really only depends on your choices and preferences. If you want a jazzed up hit of caffeine and enjoy its concentrated and bold flavors you’ll love the espresso. However, if you desire a more tamed version of it, then the regular drip coffee will be good for you.
Health wise, regular coffee is said to have a higher level of caffeine. If you are drinking large amounts of coffee every day, you are not doing justice to your body. On the other hand, espresso, despite its high concentration, has lower caffeine content. This is also because it is served in small quantities.
However, if consumed in larger quantities, espresso can be very harmful. In any case, it mostly depends on what you are going for. The caffeine, the bold taste, the dilute coffee flavor, or whatever. As long as it satisfies you and you consume it in reasonable amounts, both beverages can be pleasurable.
Conclusion
If you simply listen and pay attention to your body, you can easily tell how many shots of espresso is too much for you. A caffeine overdose is never a pleasant sensation. From feeling nauseous, sick, and feverish to having an increased heart rate, the side effects are pretty unpleasant.
The limit is when you know you are pushing it. And you can always tell when you’re doing that. Every person is different and has a different tolerance level. So, before you go rogue with caffeine, keep these adverse effects in mind. And, before something bad happens, think about the cons. Allow espresso to be your happy drink!