Caffeine and vitamins share the common trait of being organic. Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant found in several plants, including coffee, tea and the kola nut. Vitamins are carbon-containing compounds that are required by the body to function. There are 13 essential vitamins found in a variety of food sources. Some individuals may consume caffeine and vitamins because of their health benefits. However, the possibility exists that caffeine may impact the effects of certain vitamins.
Caffeine's Effects
You can begin to feel the effects of caffeine soon after you consume it, typically within 15 minutes. Caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor, which means that it narrows blood vessels. This action accounts for the increase in heart rate and other effects. It will also indirectly stimulate the release of epinephrine or adrenaline, contributing to the feelings of alertness and improved physical performance. Its effects on brain chemicals add to the pleasurable feelings you may associate with caffeine consumption.
Antioxidant Properties
Caffeine and vitamins share another characteristic in their antioxidant properties. A 2003 study by the Faculty of Life Sciences in India identified the specific cellular mechanism for caffeine's effects on free radicals. These byproducts from normal metabolism are chemically reactive and can cause cellular damage and death. Several vitamins, including vitamins C and E, have similar characteristics. Scientific evidence has emerged linking antioxidants with other health effects in addition to nutrition, such as prevention against cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Diuretic Properties
Caffeine may have a negative impact on vitamins due to its diuretic properties. Diuretics increase urine production and water loss in the body. Several vitamins, such as the B-complex vitamins and vitamin C, are water-soluble, meaning that they will dilute in water and are not stored in the body. Excessive caffeine consumption could potentially lead to a depletion of these essential vitamins, as well as minerals such as phosphate and sodium.
Other Considerations
Other possible considerations concern caffeine's effects on vitamins used to treat existing conditions. For example, you should discuss caffeine consumption with your doctor if you are taking niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, to treat an existing circulatory disorder, such as Raynaud's disease. Caffeine and niacin have opposing effects on the blood vessels that may make caffeine consumption inappropriate for some individuals. In addition, many multivitamins contain other dietary supplements, such as ginkgo biloba or ginseng, which may have negative interactions. If in doubt, consult your doctor.
References
- Neuroscience for Kids: Effects of Caffeine on the Nervous System
- Medline Plus; Vitamins; March 9, 2009
- LEDA at Harvard Law School; Reconsidering Caffeine; David Mrazik; April 27, 2004
- "Medical Science Monitor"; Antioxidant and Prooxidant Properties of Caffeine, Theobromine and Xanthine; S. Azam, et al.; September 2003
- Mayo Clinic; Food Sources the Best Choice for Antioxidants; June 5, 2009
- Colorado State University Extension; Water-Soluble Vitamins; J. Anderson and L. Young; August 2008
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