Many people use caffeine to perk up when feeling tired. In fact, for a lot of people, a morning cup of coffee is an essential part of their daily routine. The sense of increased alertness that caffeine provides can be appealing when you're lethargic or sleepy, but caffeine can produce other effects too -- ones that aren't so pleasant. For some people, caffeine causes a faster heartbeat.
Effects of Caffeine
Caffeine has many effects on your body's metabolism, particularly on your central nervous system. Because it is a stimulant drug, caffeine speeds up a number of biological functions, including your heart rate. Brown University notes that other stimulating effects of caffeine can include jittery feelings, restlessness, insomnia, increased urination, agitation and feelings of increased stress.
Safety Issues
Considering caffeine's effects on your heartbeat, you may wonder if caffeine is safe. For most people, at moderate doses, the answer is yes, says MayoClinic.com. Specifically, the amount of caffeine in about 2 to 4 cups of coffee -- about 200 to 300 mg of caffeine per day -- is considered safe. However, MayoClinic.com notes that more than 500 to 600 mg of caffeine per day can cause adverse side effects, including a fast heart rate.
Caffeine Sources
Of course, to know if your caffeine consumption is moderate or excessive, you need to know which products contain caffeine. Coffee and tea are probably the most well-known sources of caffeine, but caffeine also is found in soft drinks, chocolate products and some pain relievers. Caffeine also is sometimes added to sports drinks and energy drinks, and it is even included in coffee-flavored ice cream and yogurt.
Considerations
If you experience an increased or irregular heartbeat, consult your physician immediately. A number of conditions besides excessive caffeine consumption can cause heartbeat abnormalities, and your physician may wish to rule out any potential serious medical conditions. If you have questions or concerns about your caffeine intake, discuss your situation with your physician for evaluation and medical advice.
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