Caffeine is an alkaloid that naturally occurs in a number of plants; synthetic versions are available for supplements or as an additive to foods and beverages. Caffeine has a stimulant effect on your body, particularly your central nervous system and heart, making it a popular aid in increasing alertness. Caffeine itself does not raise blood cholesterol levels, although some caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, may.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant chemical found in more than 60 different plants, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Beverages such as coffee, tea, hot chocolate and soft drinks, as well as treats like chocolate, contain caffeine. Caffeine is also an additive to medications such as pain relievers, appetite suppressants and over-the-counter cold medicines.
Function of Caffeine
Perhaps the best-known property of caffeine is its stimulant effect. UMMC reports that caffeine is absorbed and distributed quickly throughout your body. It stimulates the central nervous system and heart while also serving as a diuretic for a short period of time after consumption. Your body passes leftover caffeine from your body within a few hours through your urine; your body does not store caffeine for later use.
Cholesterol
Diets high in saturated fats are a primary cause of bad cholesterol, a fat-like substance in your blood. High levels of bad cholesterol predispose you to cardiovascular disease. Caffeine itself is not responsible for increasing cholesterol levels in your blood. However, the popular caffeinated beverage coffee may contribute to bad cholesterol. According to a 2007 report in "Science Daily," cafestol is a compound found in both caffeinated and caffeine-free coffees. Cafestol may raise unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Heart Disease
UMMC reports that caffeine causes a temporary rise in blood pressure, which, although harmless if you are healthy, might be harmful in large doses if you already have high blood pressure. There are conflicting reports as to whether caffeine independently contributes to the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to eHealthMD. However, a study in the February 2007 "Current Opinion in Lipidology" suggests limiting your caffeine. The study reports that unfiltered coffee, such as that made in a French coffee press without a paper filter, and caffeine may contribute to a higher risk of heart disease.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Caffeine in the Diet; David C. Dugdale, III, M.D.
- "Science Daily"; How Coffee Raises Cholesterol; 2007
- BBC Health: Caffeinated Drinks
- eHealthMD; Lowering Your Blood Cholesterol: Frequently Asked Questions; Guy Slowik M.D. F.R.C.S.
- "Current Opinion in Lipidology"; Coffee, Caffeine, and Coronary Heart Disease; Maryln C. Cornelius and Ahmed El-Sohemy; February 2007
