Moderate amounts of caffeine are safe for most people. However, the National Institute of Mental Health cautions people who have anxiety disorders to refrain from caffeine because it is a stimulant drug that can aggravate their symptoms. Even for those who do not have a disorder, excessive consumption -- more than three cups daily or 250 mg -- can cause a bevy of bothersome reactions. Talk to a doctor about the dangers of caffeine in your diet.
Insomnia
Too much caffeine can cause insomnia, a common symptom that occurs with anxiety and related disorders. Caffeine is not stored in the body, nor does it build up in the bloodstream. Instead, it is excreted through urination many hours after it is consumed, Medline Plus reports. Therefore, to avoid difficulty sleeping, a person should refrain from drinking caffeinated beverages well before bed time. In addition, over-the-counter medications, appetite suppressants and cold medicines that may also contain caffeine should be avoided.
Heart Palpitations
Because caffeine is a stimulant, it has the ability to increase the heart rate, which makes it especially dangerous for those with anxiety who may already experience rapid heart beats, tremors and symptoms of irritability. Seek medical help if excessive caffeine consumption leads to heart palpitations or chest pains.
Depression
Chronic and heavy doses of caffeine ingestion may be associated with depression, according to Drugs.com. While caffeine is not proven to cause depression, it is likely that people who are more sensitive to caffeine's effects may experience depression resulting from the insomnia and anxiety that caffeine can trigger. Depression is more than just a bout of the blues and something that can be overcome easily, it is a medical condition that should be treated with the help of a professional. The good news is, according to the Mayo Clinic, most people with depression feel better with medication, counseling or other treatment.
Member Comments