Caffeine is a bitter substance found naturally in some plants, and it can be synthetically produced and added to foods and beverages. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, giving you a burst of energy, increased alertness and improving concentration and focus. While many people use caffeine for that initial morning jolt, that cup of coffee or can of soda may cause damage to your adrenal glands.
The Adrenal Glands
The adrenal glands are triangle shaped glands sitting on top of the kidneys. They are made up of two parts. The outer portion is called the adrenal cortex and the inner portion is the medulla. They perform separate functions, but together produce vital hormones. The adrenal cortex produces the hormones that have an effect on the body's metabolism and blood such as cortisol, aldosterone and androgenic steroids. The adrenal medulla produces hormones necessary for emotional well-being, including epinephrine, also called adrenaline, and norepinephrine, also called noradrenaline.
Caffeine and the Adrenal Glands
In response to stress, the adrenal glands produce and secrete adrenaline in what is known as the "fight-or-flight" response. Caffeine mimics this response in body. With each cup of coffee or can of soda consumed, you put your body in a caffeine high, which essentially keeps you in a constant "fight-or-flight" mode, causing undue stress to the adrenal glands. In her article "Adrenal Health," Marcelle Pick, OB/GYN, NP, equates this response to "crying wolf" with the adrenal glands. Over the years it takes more caffeine to get the same initial result, which leads to severe adrenal depletion and fatigue. While caffeine may cause adrenal fatigue, there is no evidence that caffeine by itself causes adrenal failure.
Caffeine Dosages and Side Effects
According to the website MayoClinic.com, caffeine in the amount of 200 to 300 mg/day, equivalent to two to four cups of coffee, is considered safe. Caffeine consumption over 500 mg/ day is considered excessive and can lead to unpleasant side effects. These can include insomnia, fast or irregular heart beat, upset stomach, irritability, nervousness, restlessness and muscle tremors.
Considerations
Due to its effects on the adrenal glands and other negative side effects, caffeine may not be the best method of increasing energy. Eating a well-rounded, nutrient-dense breakfast, followed by small frequent meals throughout the day, provides your body with the energy it needs to maintain alertness and concentration without the crash-effect of caffeine. Talk to your health-care provider concerning your caffeine consumption and what may be the best option.
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