CAFFEINE: THE GOOD, THE BAD, & THE UGLY

by Boston Gregg

A recent study by New Scientist magazine showed that 90% of North American adults consume some form of caffeine on a daily basis.

Caffeine affects our day-to-day lives more than one might think. It’s important to understand what it is and the potential influences it can have on your health.

It is a central nervous system stimulant found naturally in the beans, leaves, and fruits of over 60 known plants, including the beans/leaves that go into making your daily coffee or tea.

Moderate consumption of caffeine can benefit alertness and reduce fatigue, while withdrawal, misuse, and/or abuse could potentially result in chronic headaches, nervousness, increased anxiety, fatigue, etc.

“Don’t talk to me until I’ve had my coffee.”

The Good: (Health Benefits)

For many coffee lovers, caffeine is the very lifeblood that keeps their engine running. A morning coffee or tea will cure early morning fatigue and grogginess.
Stimulates brain function and promotes mental alertness.
Medicine containing caffeine speeds up the absorption and effectiveness of the other active ingredients.
Dietary supplements containing it have positive effects on weight lose results when paired with proper diet and exercise.
Over the counter (OTC) medicines, pills, energy drinks, etc.
Moderate consumption of it has largely positive effects on behavior and mood.

The Bad: (Side Effects & Withdrawal)

Withdrawal can have negative impacts on behavior and mood.
May negatively interact with other medications, allergies, and some common conditions.
Consuming it too close to bedtime can throw off one’s sleep cycle.

Below is a list of some factors to consider before consuming or beginning medicine containing the stimulant.

Avoid if you suffer from any of the following:

Allergies to caffeine, medicines, foods, or other substances.
Chronic anxiety
Insomnia
Seizures
Heart disease
Liver or stomach ulcers
Abnormal heart rhythms
High blood pressure

The Ugly: (Misuse & Abuse)

Misuse/abuse can lead to overdose and, in some cases, death.

Mildly addictive psychoactive drug and should be treated as such.
The recommended amount for healthy adults is 400 mg.
If you are taking medicine containing it, be mindful of caffeinated food, beverages, and other medicines.
Take medicine as prescribed by your doctor.
If you are taking over the counter (OTC) medicines containing the stimulant, follow the instructions.
Should never be used as a substitute for sleep.
The misuse/abuse OTC medicines can also cause Rebound Headaches.
Overdoses are often easily treatable.

Treating overdose:

Drink plenty of water.
Eat foods high in potassium or magnesium.
See your doctor if symptoms worsen.

Symptoms of Overdose:

Dizziness
Increased thirst
Diarrhea

Click here for more information: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/caffeine/art-20045678

Resources:

Caffeine. (2012, February 26). https://www.drugs.com/caffeine.html
Mayo Clinic Staff. Caffeine – How much is too much? (2014, April 14). http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/caffeine/art-20045678
Watson, Stephanie. Caffeine and a healthy diet may improve memory, thinking skills; alcohol’s effect uncertain. (2015, October 29). http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/caffeine-healthy-diet-may-boost-memory-thinking-skills-alcohols-effect-uncertain-201406187219
Smith, A. (2002). Effects of caffeine on human behavior. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 40, pages 1243-1255. http://cedec.umfcv.ro/files/e/f/Effects%20of%20caffeine%20on%20human%20behavior.pdf