Coffee is one of the most commonly consumed beverages globally and contains the highest amount of caffeine amongst all caffeinated beverages. In addition to coffee, caffeine is also present in tea, colas and energy drinks.
The urge to consume caffeinated beverages can be attributed to their psychoactive effects on the nervous system. Caffeine acts as a brain stimulant, increasing alertness and improving your ability to focus. This effect of caffeine depends on a person’s age, body mass, liver function and many other factors which impact the metabolism of caffeine in the body. On the flip side, in higher doses, caffeine is known to cause indigestion, palpitations, tremors, headache and insomnia. A lot of research has been done on the medical benefits and risks of caffeine; however, there has been no conclusive evidence to prove that caffeine is completely detrimental. Most of the risks associated with caffeine are attributed to heavy consumption (>6000 mg/day) whereas low to moderate consumption (130–300 mg/day) is considered safe.
Regular consumption of caffeine is associated with tolerance adaptation and withdrawal symptoms. Tolerance refers to the decreased responsiveness to caffeine on repeated use. As proven in several studies, caffeine withdrawal symptoms manifest in headaches, irritability, inability to concentrate, or drowsiness which occur on stopping consumption of caffeine.
Caffeine addiction becomes a major problem when individuals who suffer from medical or psychological problems such as generalized anxiety/panic disorders, difficulties with sleep, heartburn and belching (due to gastroesophageal reflux) get addicted to it . These medical conditions are known to be aggravated by caffeine, and cutting down or avoiding its consumption could lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Also read: Coffee doesn't reverse negative effects of boozeTags: Caffeine, Stimulant
