Caffeine is the most popular psychoactive drug in the world. It is an essential part of many people's daily routine. If you need an extra boost of energy, you might consider taking caffeine pills or drinking some extra coffee. Both will help you stay awake, but keep in mind that large amounts of caffeine can have negative side effects.
Effects Of Caffeine
Most people consume caffeine because it helps them wake up or stay alert. Caffeine is also a muscle relaxant that is used medicinally to treat migraine headaches and asthma. Many cold medications also contain caffeine to counteract the drowsiness associated with minor illness. Caffeine is often used in weight loss drugs. Scientists have several theories to explain the effectiveness of caffeine to lose weight. Some believe it is an appetite suppressant, others theorize that it speeds up your metabolism, causing your body to burn more calories. Others argue that it is simply caffeine's diuretic effect that causes you to lose water weight.
Safe Caffeine Levels
About 250 mg of caffeine is generally considered a moderate daily intake for healthy adults. Some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others, and will experience negative side effects after consuming much less. Others have a tolerance to the drug and need more caffeine before they experience an energy boost. If you feel jittery, experience headaches, stomachaches or insomnia, lower your caffeine intake.
Caffeine in Caffeine Pills
The amount of caffeine in caffeine pills varies widely. Alka-Seltzer Wake Up Call contains 65 mg of caffeine per pill. Maximum Strength No-Doz contains 200 mg of caffeine. Most caffeine pills have between 100 and 150 mg of caffeine.
Caffeine in Coffee
The amount of caffeine in coffee depends on the brewing method and brew strength. Instant coffee contains between 27 and 173 mg of caffeine per 8 oz. cup. Regular drip brew coffee contains between 95 and 200 mg of caffeine per 8 oz. cup. Espresso contains between 58 and 75 mg per 1 oz. shot. An 8 oz. espresso drink may only contain 58 mg of caffeine because only 1 oz. is actually coffee. The other 7 oz. are milk and flavorings.
Caffeine Toxicity
Caffeine can be lethal in very large doses. Even at non-lethal doses, caffeine can cause serious health problems including heart tremors, anxiety, gastrointestinal upset and numbness. Two or three caffeine pills could be enough to induce caffeine toxicity, depending on your sensitivity to the drug.
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