Caffeine is a potent stimulant that might cause negative reactions in high doses. While most healthy adults can safely consume up to 300 mg of caffeine a day, caffeine sensitivities and allergies might cause you to experience more radical effects. For best results, moderate your caffeine intake to reduce your risk of negatively impacting your health.
Side Effects
According to MayoClinic.com, excess caffeine intake of 500 to 600 mg – roughly four or five cups of coffee – might lead to unpleasant side effects such as upset stomach, muscle tremors, nervousness, insomnia, irritability, restlessness and increased heart rate. Since caffeine is contained in a variety of foods and beverages, a combination of eating and drinking habits can lead to consuming more caffeine than is recommended. While most adults can safely consume the recommended 300 mg of caffeine a day without complications, certain people might experience negative effects based on factors such as age, body mass, health conditions and medications.
Caffeine and the Adrenals
Caffeine is considered a psychoactive stimulant due to its accelerating effects on neuron activity in the brain. According to the Women to Women website, the hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal glands all react to caffeine stimulating effects by releasing stress hormones such as adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol. As a result, your body begins to mimic the natural fight or flight response, increasing your heart rate, intensifying your breathing and contracting your muscles. While this reaction might cause short-term benefits in focus, concentration and energy, caffeine might disrupt the regular rhythm of cortisol and lead to adrenal fatigue.
Caffeine and Digestion
As your body enters a fight or flight response from caffeine, blood is transferred from the digestive system to help maintain energy demands. The Gaia Naturopathic Clinic website attributes this bodily function to frequent symptoms of indigestion and stomach problems resulting from caffeine consumption. As caffeine enters your digestive system, your stomach lining begins to secrete gastric acids, which might cause pain in those with stomach ulcers. Also, caffeine potentially might decrease magnesium absorption, reducing your body’s ability to maintain bowel regularity.
Safety Concerns
Caffeine overdose is potentially lethal and might cause significant harm to the body. The MedlinePlus website lists a variety of caffeine overdose symptoms, including confusion, convulsions, diarrhea, dizziness, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, muscle twitching, increased thirst, fever, hallucinations and irregular pulse. If you suspect that you are experiencing a caffeine overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
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