Coffee is a beloved daily ritual for many of us. Whether it’s the first thing we reach for in the morning to wake up or a comforting cup shared with friends, coffee is a staple in American culture. In fact, around 517 million Americans enjoy a daily cup of it, according to the National Coffee Association. But have you ever wondered how much is too much?

Why Do People React Differently to Coffee?

If you’ve noticed that some people seem to have no problem downing multiple cups of coffee while others struggle with just one, you’re not imagining things. Celebrity nutritionist Sarah Carolides, the Head of Nutrition at Zooki, explains that people’s bodies metabolize coffee differently.

This is due to a few genes that determine whether someone is a fast or slow metabolizer of caffeine. Carolides explains, “You probably don’t need a genetic test to know if you’re a fast metabolizer or not. You’ve likely already noticed how coffee affects you!”

The Difference Between Fast and Slow Metabolizers

Sarah shares her own experience as a slow metabolizer. “If I have coffee after 2 p.m., I’ll be up until at least midnight,” she reveals. Meanwhile, her husband is a fast metabolizer. He can have a double espresso after dinner and fall asleep within minutes, without any issues.Find out how to recognize the signs your body is giving you and learn when it’s time to hit pause on your coffee habit.

For those with faster metabolisms, Sarah says that consuming up to four cups of coffee a day could actually improve health in areas like cardiovascular health. But for those with slower metabolisms, drinking that much could have negative effects, such as dehydrating the skin.

Finding the Right Balance for You

Ultimately, the key is moderation and understanding your body’s unique response to coffee. While some people can thrive on multiple cups a day, others might experience jitters, poor sleep, or dehydration with just one. Sarah Carolides emphasizes that it’s about personal awareness and finding what works best for you. If you’re unsure, start by paying closer attention to how to makes you feel throughout the day. Adjust your intake accordingly, and don’t be afraid to take breaks when necessary. With a little mindfulness, you can enjoy your coffee without letting it take control of your routine.

How to Know If You’re Having Too Much Coffee

If you’re unsure whether you’re drinking too much , Sarah recommends asking yourself: “Are you in control of your it, or is it in control of you?”

She warns that if you wake up in the morning and feel you can’t function until you’ve had your coffee, it might be time for a break. “Try cutting it out for a while and see how you feel,” she suggests. If you experience withdrawal symptoms like headaches or feel terrible, it could be a sign that you’re not metabolizing caffeine well, and it’s affecting your body negatively.

On the other hand, if you can easily go without it and still feel fine, you’re likely in control of your caffeine intake.

The Bottom Line

While its benefits, it’s important to listen to your body and recognize when it’s too much. Whether you’re a fast or slow metabolizer, being aware of how it affects you can help you maintain a healthy balance. So, next time you reach for that cup, check in with yourself and ask if you’re truly in control!”Many of us rely on coffee to get through the day, but if you’re noticing symptoms like restlessness or headaches, it might be time to rethink your caffeine consumption. Here’s how to know.”