Ever wondered why you're staring at the ceiling at 2 AM after that afternoon latte? It's all about caffeine's staying power. The magic question, "how long does caffeine stay in your system?" depends on several factors, primarily your individual metabolism.
Generally, caffeine has a half-life of about 3 to 5 hours. This means that after that time, half of the caffeine you consumed is still circulating in your body. It can take approximately 15-30 minutes to feel the effect, with peak level within 1 hour. The full effects can linger between 6-10 hours.
Factors like genetics, age, liver function, and even whether you're a smoker can influence this. Pregnant women also tend to process caffeine more slowly. So, next time you reach for that extra cup, consider your caffeine sensitivity and plan accordingly for a good night's sleep!
