How much caffeine is in hot chocolate?

If you love starting the day with a steaming cup of hot coffee, you're not alone. According to the American Medical Association, approximately 80% of Americans consume drinks containing caffeine daily.

From coffee to energy drinks to hot chocolate, there are many ways to begin your day with a caffeine boost. But, how can you be sure of the levels of caffeine found in your beverage of choice?

If you are monitoring your caffeine intake, you'll want to know the exact amount you're consuming when you reach for your daily beverage. Let's dive into the effects of caffeine and how much can be found in hot chocolate and other beverages.

Key takeaways

• Caffeine is a natural stimulant that may temporarily affect alertness and focus.
• Hot chocolate, coffee, soda, tea, and energy drinks are all popular drinks containing caffeine.
• The amount of caffeine found in hot chocolate can vary depending on the ingredients used, but it generally sits around 15-20 mg.

See Related: The Best Dairy-Free Hot Cocoa Mixes

What is caffeine?

Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant that stimulates the central nervous system, helping manage fatigue and leaving you more alert.

Caffeine blocks adenosine, which is a brain chemical that makes you feel tired. By blocking this, caffeine increases other neurotransmitters such as dopamine. This effect helps caffeinated drinks improve focus and alertness, leaving you feeling more awake. 

Does caffeine have health benefits?

There is evidence to support caffeine's benefits on the body. The American Heart Association is just one group that has examined links between regular coffee consumption and certain long-term health outcomes.

Other studies suggest that coffee drinkers may be less likely to die from heart disease. Some studies suggest that caffeine intake may temporarily influence appetite or mood, though results can differ widely and are not conclusive.

Which beverages contain caffeine?

Because caffeine may affect alertness, it’s no surprise that it shows up in many of today’s most popular beverages.

These include drinks like coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks like Coca Cola, and certain teas. Even decaf coffee contains small amounts of caffeine.

Beverages that contain caffeine:

• Coffee: The amount of caffeine in coffee or instant coffee can vary greatly depending on the brewing method and the type of coffee beans used. Generally, coffee contains a caffeine level of around 95 mg of caffeine per 8 oz. cup. Decaffeinated coffee, or decaf coffee on the other hand, which many people believe to be completely caffeine-free, contains 2-5 mg of caffeine.
• Soda: Just like in coffee, the amount of caffeine in soda can also vary from brand to brand, but typically falls between 20-50 mg per can.
• Green tea: While a cup of green tea contains less caffeine than other caffeinated beverages like coffee and brewed teas, it still contains 20–45 mg per cup. Some types of teas, like matcha, might contain more while others, like oolong tea, may contain less.
• Hot chocolate: The amount of caffeine in hot chocolate depends on several factors, although a cup of regular hot chocolate typically contains 15-20 mg.

It is a common misconception that all tea contains caffeine. Most herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, with some exceptions.

Energy drinks also contain caffeine, although at a higher percentage. Those who frequently drink energy drinks should consume a moderate amount.

Many people choose energy drinks before tasks that require focus or activity, though too much caffeine may lead to side effects such as jitteriness, a rapid heartbeat, or trouble sleeping.

If you are monitoring your caffeine consumption, it may be comforting to know that coffee and tea aren't your only options. Other popular beverages, like hot chocolate, can help keep you alert and taste great, too.

Bonus: Hot Drinks Do More Than Keep You Warm: Benefits of Warm Drinks

How is hot chocolate made?

Hot chocolate gets its caffeine from cocoa solids, which are derived from the cocoa bean. After the cocoa butter is removed, the remaining cacao solids are ground into cocoa powder.  Some methods of processing, like Dutch processing, may reduce the caffeine content found in cacao solids. 

How much caffeine does hot chocolate contain?

Hot chocolate's caffeine content can vary based on the type you use and its main ingredients. For example, hot chocolate made from a mix may contain less caffeine than hot chocolate made organically from beans.

Dark chocolate contains higher cacao solids content, and contains more caffeine than milk chocolate or white chocolate. The more cocoa solids used to make a hot chocolate mix, the more caffeine it will contain.

How much caffeine is too much?

According to the Food and Drug Administration, up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day is suitable for adults, which is equal to about four or five cups of coffee. 

On the other hand, high doses of caffeine, classified as 12 cups or more per day, can raise blood pressure, make people anxious, and lead to trouble sleeping. 

It is also possible for the body to develop a caffeine dependence. This means that stopping caffeine consumption suddenly can bring about withdrawal symptoms. Some withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, headaches, and a depressed mood. 

While some individuals may wish to avoid any amount of caffeine, some hot chocolate beverages, like our sugar-free hot cocoa mix may help with relaxation and clarity.

Conclusion

Many people rely on caffeinated drinks to provide the extra boost of energy they need to take on the day. Whether you choose hot chocolate, coffee, tea, or other drinks, it is wise to know the level of caffeine you are consuming and whether that amount is too much to be considered safe.

With its lower caffeine content and amazing taste, a cup of hot cocoa is the perfect choice for a small pick-me-up, regardless of the time of day. With its relatively low caffeine content, hot chocolate can be a comforting option for those who want a warm beverage with less caffeine than coffee or tea.

Keep Reading: What Does It Mean for a Manufacturing Facility to Be GMP-Certified?

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Mindful Nutrition is a veteran-owned company with a passion for wellness. We use natural ingredients in our products, including melatonin, GABA, ashwagandha, and L-Theanine. Our hot cocoa blends are vegan, non-GMO, and plant-based, crafted to be a comforting addition to your daily ritual. We utilize third-party testing on all products to ensure purity, quality, and safety. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or health concerns.