I’m never going to finish *sip* I got this! Caffeine is definitely an abused subsistence in early adulthood and adulthood. The trials of being a social person and dedicated college student, often lead to some late night studying that is accompanied by some hot coffee brewing. Most college students aren’t really so worried about the effects that several caffeinated drinks will have on their bodies, as much as their concerned about finishing their paper for that 8 a.m. class but maybe they should be.
Brown University discussed the implications of several caffeinated beverages and the effects on the mind and the body. Brown dictated that 90% of people in the world use caffeine in some way. Caffeine really only aids the consumer for about the first hour of consumption and then leaves the user in the same tired state as before. The Brown study stated that caffeine activates the brain by stimulating the “pituitary gland” which “perceives [the caffeine] as an emergency and therefore causes the adrenal glands to release adrenaline.” Caffeine works in a similar way heroine does; by distressing the dopamine levels in the brain. Caffeine is mostly noted for harming less of the physical aspect of life and more of the emotional state of a person.
Heavy caffeine users have reported signs of insomnia. If a lot of caffeine is used in a day then the person often feels as if they do not need sleep or simply cannot fall asleep. Lack of sleep causes moodiness as well. Caffeine can also cause severe migraines. Caffeine can furthermore dehydrate a person easily because it is a “diuretic” and causes the body to “lose water through urination.” Finally, caffeine can cause a person to feel anxious and actually make it more difficult to sit still and study. Most researchers recommend no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine a day or four cups of coffee for most healthy adults. However adolescents should have no more than 100 milligrams of caffeine. While this probably won’t deter anyone from abusing caffeine, at least we can all be aware of what is causing our bodies to act differently.
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As a coffee addict myself, this caught my attention immediately. I have heard from some sources that coffee (in moderation) is beneficial. http://authoritynutrition.com/top-13-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coffee/ This article outlines some beneficial aspects of coffee-consumption, you may find it interesting. Coffee actually has nutrients and antioxidants which are good for the body. I think the key here is remembering that essentially anything in excess may be harmful.