Caffeine is one of the most widely used stimulants worldwide. It is present in coffee, tea, energy drinks, sodas and even some medications and allows millions of people to stay alert or improve their focus — or simply feel more awake — throughout the day. While caffeine in moderation can be beneficial — it can increase metabolism, improve mood and stimulate mental performance, among other effects — excessive intake can lead to a host of health problems.
The issue develops when individuals start relying too much on caffeine to combat fatigue or enhance productivity. While the high caffeine content in multiple cups of coffee or large energy-drink servings might provide a quick pick-me-up, it poses hidden dangers that can compromise short and long-term health. “Lots of adults don’t really know how much caffeine they are dealing with,” Noida based Dr Meera Sharma, a clinical nutritionist and wellness coach, told Moneycontrol.
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Here are seven issues that can arise from overdoing caffeine according to Sharma.
Sleep Disruption
Caffeine is a stimulant of the central nervous system — it keeps our brain alert. Drinking it late in the day can cause you to be sleepless or toss and turn. Over time, a lack of good sleep can interfere with the immune system, mood and general health.
Increased Anxiety and Restlessness
High caffeine consumption may increase the level of stress hormones such as cortisol, leading people to feel jittery, tense and anxious. This increased level of anxiety can be part of the reason many people feel irritable, unfocused and sometimes even suffer from panic attacks.
Digestive Issues
Caffeine causes the stomach to secrete a higher amount of gastric acid, which can cause indigestion, reflux or even stomach upset. Individuals with sensitive stomachs or suffering from conditions such as gastritis may experience aggravated symptoms after consuming large amounts of caffeine.
Increased Rate and the Blood Pressure of The Heart
You can overstimulate the cardiovascular system with too much caffeine, and you might experience palpitations, a racing heart or an increase in blood pressure. For those with preexisting heart conditions, this could even be potentially dangerous.
Dependence and Withdrawal
The body becomes dependent on caffeine for energy over time and can deal with problems like headaches, exhaustion, irritability and an inability to concentrate all points when not taken.
Bone Health Concerns
High consumption of caffeine has been associated with low calcium absorption, which in turn can impair bone density. This in turn increases the probability of fractures and osteoporosis, particularly among the elderly.
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Dehydration and Frequent Urination
Caffeine is a very mild diuretic, so it makes you pee. In high concentration, this may contribute to dehydration if water intake is not adequate to replace the lost fluids.
FAQs about caffeine
1. What are the common sources of caffeine?
Caffeine is commonly found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, sodas, and some medications.
2. Can caffeine have health benefits?
Yes, in moderation, caffeine can increase metabolism, improve mood, and stimulate mental performance.
3. How does excessive caffeine intake affect sleep?
Excessive caffeine intake, especially late in the day, can cause sleep disruption, leading to sleeplessness or restless sleep.
4. What are the signs of caffeine dependence?
Signs of caffeine dependence include headaches, exhaustion, irritability, and difficulty concentrating when not consuming caffeine.
5. How does high caffeine consumption impact bone health?
High caffeine consumption can impair calcium absorption, potentially reducing bone density and increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis, particularly in the elderly.
6. Why does caffeine cause dehydration
Caffeine has mild diuretic properties, leading to increased urination, which can contribute to dehydration if fluid intake is not sufficient.
7. What should individuals with heart conditions consider regarding caffeine intake?
Individuals with heart conditions should be cautious with caffeine intake as it can overstimulate the cardiovascular system, causing palpitations, a racing heart, or increased blood pressure
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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