Caffeine causes many physical reactions in the body. The caffeine content in soda is generally less than that of coffee or tea, so its effects may not be as noticeable when you drink soda as when you drink coffee or tea. Although the intensity and specific effects vary depending on individual circumstances, some effects are common.
Stimulation
The caffeine in soda is a stimulant, which means it speeds up your metabolism and central nervous system. This typically results in an increased heart rate and short-term energy boost. While a normal dose of caffeine is approximately 50 to 200mg, a dose of 500 to 600mg of caffeine may affect you the same as a low dose of the stimulant drug amphetamine, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. This type of stimulation may also cause nausea, gastrointestinal upset, muscle tremors or headaches, according to MayoClinic.com.
Insomnia
The caffeine in your soda blocks the adenosine receptor in your body, which keeps you from feeling sleepy. Because of this, you may have difficulty falling asleep if you consume a caffeinated soda too close to bedtime. You also may not get as much deep sleep as usual. The effect of caffeine can last eight to 14 hours, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. To avoid sleep problems from caffeine, limit your soda intake throughout the day so you get no more than 300mg of caffeine, and avoid drinking soda in the late afternoon or evening.
Increased Urination
Caffeine also affects the kidneys and causes you to urinate more frequently than usual. This may cause dehydration, according to the American Heart Association. To avoid dehydration, consume water and other non-caffeinated beverages in addition to drinking soda.
Heart Effects
Caffeine may affect your risk for coronary heart disease, but the research on this subject is inconclusive as of October 2010. The American Heart Association states that moderate caffeine intake appears to be safe, but talk to your doctor if you have concerns about the effects of caffeine on your heart.
Mood Changes
Large amounts of caffeine may alter your mood. Drinking more than 500mg of caffeine may cause tension, irritability, anxiety, restlessness or nervousness, according to MayoClinic.com.
Tolerance or Physical Dependency
You may develop a tolerance for caffeine if you consume it every day, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Tolerance means you need more of the substance to have the same effects. In addition, consuming large amounts of caffeine can cause a physical dependence. If you are physically dependent on caffeine, you may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you stop using caffeine. These withdrawal symptoms may include severe headaches, muscle aches, depression and irritability.
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