Menopause for some women can be a physically demanding journey that includes hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood swings and incontinence. Consumption of caffeine may affect some women more negatively then others during this phase of life.
Caffeine's Effects
Caffeine's effect on menopausal women depends on what symptoms the woman is experiencing. If a woman has few symptoms, her intake of caffeine may not matter much. But if a woman has many symptoms, overconsumption of caffeine may increase the intensity of these symptoms.
Facts About Caffeine
Caffeine is a natural, bitter substance consumed daily, in one form or another, by 80 percent of the world's population. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, cocoa beans, chocolate, cola, energy drinks and medications. Anyone who has ever consumed caffeine knows about the stimulating effect it has on the body. Caffeine affects the body's metabolism. People may notice changes in their mood, stamina and urine output. Any amount up to 300 mg/day or less is considered to be of moderate consumption. Heavy consumption is considered more than 6,000 mg/day. The average American consumes about 280 mg of caffeine each day. For most menopausal women, consuming 1 to 2 cups of coffee each day does not seem to be harmful. Caffeine is absorbed in the body in about 30 to 45 minutes. It takes about three hours for the effects to diminish.
Caffeine and menopause
As long as a woman consumes caffeine moderately, most likely she can avoid any problems associated with the substance. However, if a woman is sensitive to the effects of caffeine, then she should limit her use of it. People who consume large amounts of caffeine can experience caffeine withdrawal within 12 to 24 hours after their last dose. Symptoms of caffeine withdrawal include headaches, anxiety, fatigue and depression. Caffeine withdrawal will usually resolve itself within 24 to 48 hours.
The Cleveland Clinic recommends that menopausal women not consume caffeine in the evenings as it can interfere with sleep. It recommends consuming caffeine substances early in the day to avoid this problem. Menopausal women with incontinence problems may need to limit their intake also. Caffeine is a diuretic which means it forces the kidneys to release more water than they should.
Fluid Consumption
Keeping well hydrated is important. To prevent dehydration from too much caffeine intake, menopausal women should consume fluids throughout the day from other sources that are not diuretics such as water, milk and juices.
Caffeine Common Sense
The majority of women going through menopause should be able to partake of caffeine containing foods and beverages. Monitoring her intake is wise to do as caffeine is a substance that usually can be enjoyed during this phase of life.
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