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Caffeine is everywhere. It is possibly the most common drug in America, the world even. Its in our coffee, our drinks,
even our chocolate bars. It has many effects and symptoms that affect the body and mind. Caffeine has both long and short
terms affects also. Caffeine is also an addictive drug, like nicotine.
Caffeine belongs to a group of stimulants called xanthines. Considering it's readily available and a reliable pick-me-up
for many, caffeine is a very popular drug. After you take some in, its highest concentration in our system occurs within thirty
to sixty minutes, and its effects usually last for four to six hours. Caffeine is mildly addictive, as you already know. Some
effects of withdrawl from caffeine are:
- sleepiness
- feeling overtired (from not having had any caffeine to energize you)
- a terrible headache (when you abruptly stop having caffeine regularly)
Like any other drug, caffeine can induce short term and long term effects on the body. It can also have symptoms of overuse.
But how much is too much caffeine? It depends on the person -- oftentimes, you'll know when you've had more than enough if
it makes you feel:
- anxious
- excitable
- restless
- dizzy
- irritable
- unable to concentrate
- headaches that don't seem to go away
- trouble with sleeping
| Coffee beans: One of the main sources of caffeine |
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| Looks tasty, doesn't it? |
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