Caffeine is a chemical compound that can be found in tea, coffee, soft drinks, soda and certain medicines. Most people know that drinking caffeine can give you an energy boost and make you more alert, at least temporarily; however, side effects are possible that should be considered prior to using caffeine for this or any other purpose.
What is Caffeine?
Caffeine is a substance that exists in certain plants naturally, as well as formed chemically and artificially. Not only does it stimulate your central nervous system, it is also a diuretic. Caffeine is absorbed and distributed throughout your body quickly, then it passes into the brain. It is not stored in the body and is excreted in urine.
Uses
MedlinePlus states that caffeine may be used to treat extreme headaches and migraines. Caffeine is taken to relieve fatigue or drowsiness. Some people may take caffeine to reduce the effect of alcohol; however, no evidence supports this idea. People also take caffeine as a diet aid. The American Heart Association states that in addition to stimulating the central nervous system, it also releases free fatty acids from fatty tissue.
Natural Caffeine Sources
Caffeine can be found in foods such as tea leaves, kola nuts, coffee and cocoa beans.
Side Effects
MedlinePlus warns against excessive caffeine intake. Too much caffeine in your diet can lead to a fast heart rate, excessive urination, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, anxiety, depression, tremors and difficulty sleeping. The amount of caffeine that will produce an effect will vary from person to person. Smaller people generally need less to feel an effect than larger people. Additionally, you can build a tolerance to caffeine -- the more you consume, the more caffeine it takes to produce an effect. Calcium may be lost when you drink caffeine, and caffeine can aggravate heart conditions.
Withdrawal from caffeine can lead to headaches, drowsiness, irritability, nausea and vomiting -- among other symptoms. The best way to wean yourself off of caffeine is to do it gradually.
Recommended Daily Dose
Three 8-oz. cups of coffee daily provide a moderate amount of caffeine; this equals about 250 mg of caffeine per day. Children who drink caffeinated beverages should also be monitored, as drinks with caffeine may be replacing other nutritious drinks and water intake, and the child may eat less since caffeine suppresses appetite. TeensHealth states that teens should get no more than 100 mg of caffeine per day. Women who are pregnant are recommended to avoid caffeine.
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