If asked to picture your average coffee enthusiast, you may be picturing a jittery 25-year-old off to their first day of work in a bustling city. But according to The National Coffee Association, adults in their 60s and above drink more coffee than any other age group. American elders love their coffee, but how does caffeine affect adults in this age range?
Well, the short answer is that anything in overload is bad for you. Too much of anything can cause some serious problems. Excessive caffeine consumption can have negative effects on anyone, although these negative effects are compounded for those over 60. But what exactly counts as “excessive”? Several recent studies have shown that, in moderation, caffeine consumption for adults in their 60s and above poses little risk. What’s tricky, then, is figuring out how to differentiate between excessive and moderate. When does enjoyment become indulgence?
How Much Is Too Much?
Ignoring the real risks associated with caffeine can cause myriad difficulties down the road, so this is something you’ll want to be clear about. While some sources state that 500 to 600 milligrams (5 to 7 cups) of coffee a day is considered excessive, other sources recommend just 3 cups of coffee a day. The main danger behind excessive coffee consumption is that it poses a severe risk of dehydration. This is no small matter, so if you’re the type of person that needs multiple cups of coffee a day, we highly recommend no more than 3 cups.
For those in their 60s, dehydration can cause serious problems. Those in this age range are more sensitive to fluctuations in their body’s fluid levels. Because of this, dehydration can easily manifest in symptoms like light-headedness, which can make you more prone to falls.
Dehydration is not the only problem posed by excessive caffeine consumption. Too much caffeine can lead to sleep problems, which those in their 60s and above are especially prone to. Sleep problems can in turn lead to multiple other health issues, putting you at risk physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Caffeine Overload
Coffee is a stimulant that jump-starts the nervous system. Too much can cause nervousness, heartburn, and stomach upsets. Too much caffeine can lead to:
- Reduced bone strength
- Difficulty sleeping
- Anxiety
- Elevated blood pressure
Caffeine is found in more than just coffee, which is why we suggested a lower threshold for coffee consumption above. It’s likely that you might be ingesting caffeine throughout the day in other forms, such as tea, chocolate, certain medications, or soda.
Consume in Moderation
While consuming coffee in moderation poses no significant issues, it’s important to note that the line between “moderate” and “excessive” can be thin, and is dependent on you as an individual. What is considered moderate for one person can easily be excessive for another. If you rely on a cup of coffee to wake you up in the morning, why not explore the benefits of a morning walk instead? If you drink coffee for a mental boost, an alternative would be to try out some brain exercises to sharpen your mental faculties and hone your focus and sense of clarity.
