Most of us use caffeine to help wake us up in the morning or during the late afternoon when energy is waning, and we don't consider the potentially harmful side effects. Caffeine is classified as a stimulant drug with high potential for addiction. Caffeine from coffee, tea and energy drinks can cause changes in your focus, concentration and reaction as it stimulates the brain. Caffeine addiction and withdrawal can also influence your mental functioning and reaction to stimuli.
Physical Responses to Caffeine
When you consume caffeine, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and acts directly on the central nervous system to stimulate increased brain function. You will be more energized and awake after consuming it. Responses to caffeine are highly individualized, and some people may experience increased concentration and alertness, so their physical and mental reactions may be faster and more accurate. At the same time, people who consume too much caffeine or have a particular sensitivity may experience overstimulation that results in lowered concentration and decreased reaction rates.
Recommended Caffeine Intake
Daily caffeine consumption should be limited to 300 mg or less. This is roughly three to four cups of coffee or four cups of tea. If you consume higher quantities of caffeine, you are much more likely to experience negative side effects such as restlessness, anxiety and insomnia, and all of the symptoms can have a drastic effect on your physical and mental reactions. You may find that you are jittery, nervous and unable to focus and process information very well.
Effects of Addiction and Withdrawal
Regular use of caffeine is likely to result in addiction. If you develop an addiction to caffeine and you stop consuming caffeinated drinks or reduce your caffeine intake, you will experience physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. These can include headache, nausea, irritability, restlessness and an inability to focus. Your mood changes and physical symptoms can adversely affect your emotional and physical reactions to stimuli.
Managing Caffeine Consumption
You can avoid the negative effects of caffeine by determining how specific beverages and quantities affect you. Limiting your daily use to less than 300 mg will also ensure that you don't negatively affect your performance or reactions. If you have a dependency on caffeine and you plan to cut back or quit, you should decrease your use over a period of weeks. Consuming decaffeinated beverages such as decaf coffee or herbal teas is also an excellent way to avoid caffeine.
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