The active substance in coffee is caffeine. Medline plus defines caffeine as a substance existing naturally in certain plants such as coffee beans. It is an addictive stimulant and diuretic that acts on the central nervous system. It is consumed due to its benefits of promoting alertness and short-term relief from fatigue. Due to caffeine's effects, it can result in a number of health risks.
Increased Heart Rate and High Blood Pressure
As stated by the Harvard Health Publications, one of the health risks and dangers of coffee is a significant increase in the consumer's heart rate. Coffee acts as a stimulant to the central nervous system, which in turn leads to the heart pumping faster. This increased heart rate, also known as tachycardia, leads to a significant rise in blood pressure. The Mayo Clinic sites that tachycardia may also lead to an increased risk of stroke, and can cause sudden cardiac arrest or death. Patients with heart conditions are advised to avoid stimulants such as coffee as they can lead to irregular heartbeats.
Physical or Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms
One of the health risks and dangers of coffee listed in the Harvard Health Publications is the onset of physical or psychological withdrawal symptoms. The caffeine and nicotine in coffee are stimulants of the central nervous system, acting on the brain's nicotinic receptors. Depending on the dosage of coffee that the body is used to receiving on a regular basis, a physical dependence can develop. When the body does not receive this "usual" dose of coffee, withdrawal symptoms occur; these include headaches, irritability, depression and nervousness.
Insomnia or Difficulty Sleeping
According to the Mayo Clinic, insomnia or difficulty sleeping are some of the health risks and dangers of coffee. The main effect of coffee on the central nervous system is stimulation, which leads to increased awareness or alertness. Continued use of coffee can lead to the user having problems falling asleep. Some coffee consumers are able to sleep only after having consumed coffee, while others will have problems falling asleep whether or not they have had coffee.
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