Most people ingest caffeine in the form of their morning cup of coffee. For the most part, it's harmless. However, for some people, consuming caffeine can cause stomach cramps and other unpleasant side effects like headaches, jitters and anxiety, says MedlinePlus. Typically, these effect are caused by a caffeine overdose.
Caffeine
Caffeine is present in coffee, tea and chocolate naturally and is an additive to soft drinks, energy drinks and numerous medications. As a central nervous system stimulant, it improves your mood and increases your feelings of being alert and awake.
Over Consumption
If you suffer from stomach cramps after having caffeinated substances, you may have overdosed on the drug, says MedlinePlus. Along with stomach cramps, you might experience jitters, rapid heart rate, dehydration, nausea, gas, and anxiety. If you think you've had too much caffeine and are suffering from these symptoms, see your physician.
Allergies
The stomach cramps you experience after consuming caffeine may be due to an allergy to the substance. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include stomach cramps, facial swelling, diarrhea, vomiting, and hives, says Drugs.com. If you suspect you may be allergic to caffeine, see a doctor right away for a proper diagnosis.
Considerations
Even though it may seem like your stomach cramps are caused by caffeine, they might be caused by the foods or substances caffeine is contained in. If you have cramps after eating chocolate or drinking coffee with cream or milk, you may be lactose intolerant. Keep track of the foods you eat and your symptoms to assess what the cause of your stomach cramps may be.
