Caffeine, generally considered the most commonly used drug worldwide, is the active ingredient in coffee. Coffee consumption has reached up to 10 billion lbs. a year in the world. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that affects the heart, kidneys and metabolism. Coffee is known to have some beneficial effects but may cause harmful effects, also mainly due to caffeine. One 180ml brewed cup of coffee contains 80mg to 140mg caffeine.
Caffeinism
According to "CURRENT Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2011," chronically high consumption of coffee up to 500mg a day may result in caffeinism. This condition manifests as anxiety, agitation, restlessness, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, palpitation and fast heart rate. Because caffeine can have addictive potential, its withdrawal can produce headaches, irritability, lethargy and occasional nausea. Physiological and pathological dependence as seen with narcotics is not seen with coffee.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Caffeine can cause increased acid production in the stomach, resulting in reflux symptoms, inflammation and stomach ulcers, BBC Health says.
Renal Side Effects
Excessive urine production or diuresis is seen with caffeine. This effect is mild and does not result in dehydration or kidney failure, according to the BBC.
Electrolytes Imbalance & Anti Thiamine
Prolong and excessive coffee intake results in decreased iron absorption and demineralization of bones due to movement of calcium and phosphorus from bones into blood, says BBC Health. Excess urine production or diuresis can affect sodium and water balance. Coffee can have anti-thiamine effects as well.
Cardiovascular Side effects
In high consumption, coffee may result in fast heart rate and high blood pressure. It can cause anxiety-like symptoms including sweating, tremors, insomnia and palpitations.
References
- "CURRENT Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2011"; Stephen J. McPhee, Maxine A. Papadakis, Eds. Michael W. Rabow, Associate Ed. Fiftieth Edition; 2011
- "Poisoning & Drug Overdose, fifth edition"; Kent R. Olson; 2007
- BBC Health : Coffee
- Pat Reeves, Dietary Therapist: Damaging Effects of Tea and Coffee
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