Caffeine – The Good and the Bad

Caffeine is a stimulant, which makes us feel awake and alert. It is also a common ingredient in many medications. Depending on how much you take, caffeine can have a number of negative effects. High levels of caffeine in the body can lead to toxicity. Those who consume more than 1.2 grams of caffeine per day may experience convulsions and vomiting. It can take as long as six hours to recover from such a high dosage. Caffeine is an essential component of a wide variety of medications, including pain relievers. It can reduce inflammation and narrow blood vessels, which may result in headache relief.
High levels of caffeine can increase blood pressure and raise heart rate. It can also affect the blood sugar level. If you suffer from osteoporosis or low bone density, it is best to avoid caffeine. It can also make urination more frequent and cause diarrhea. People who suffer from Parkinson’s disease or other nervous system disorders should also exercise caution when consuming caffeine.
Caffeine can be naturally present in plants such as tea and coffee. It can also be artificially added to foods, beverages, and medicines. Caffeine relaxes the smooth muscles in the body and affects the endothelial system, which regulates blood flow. Caffeine is one of the most commonly consumed psychoactive drugs worldwide. It has been consumed in China and Arabia for thousands of years.