The overwhelming majority of people consume caffeine in some form or other during the day and/or night. This may come from coffee, tea, soda and/or energy drinks. Up to 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine a day appears to be safe for most healthy adults. That’s roughly the amount of caffeine in four cups of brewed coffee, 10 cans of cola or two “energy shot” drinks.
Here are some of the potential negative health impacts of drinking too much caffeine:
Cardiovascular Effects:
- Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Caffeine stimulates the heart and can lead to a rapid heartbeat and elevated blood pressure.
- Heart Palpitations: Some individuals may experience a feeling of their heart racing or skipping beats.
- Irregular Heartbeat: In rare, severe cases, excessive caffeine intake can contribute to irregular heartbeats or even heart rhythm problems.
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· Nervous System Effects:
- Anxiety and Nervousness: Caffeine is a stimulant, and overconsumption can lead to anxiety, restlessness, and jitteriness.
- Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances: Caffeine can interfere with sleep patterns, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.
- Headaches: Some people experience headaches as a side effect of caffeine consumption, especially when they reduce their intake after a period of regular, high consumption.
Gastrointestinal Issues:
- Upset Stomach and Nausea: Caffeine can irritate the stomach and cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Increased Urination: Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production, which can lead to frequent urination and dehydration.
· Other Potential Risks:
- Caffeine Withdrawal: Sudden cessation of caffeine intake after regular, high consumption can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, headache, and irritability.
- Interaction with Medications: Caffeine can interact with certain medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy may be linked to miscarriages and low birth weight, and caffeine can pass through breast milk, potentially affecting the baby.
Bone Health: Some studies suggest that high caffeine intake may interfere with calcium absorption, potentially increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
This entry was prompted by a story that appeared in the news today about a social media influencer known for drinking MANY energy drinks daily and she died due to a heart attack at age 28. The only factor this could be attributed to was her large consumption of these caffeine-infused energy drinks. PLEASE be judicious in YOUR use of energy drinks.
Here is “The Coffee Song” by old Blue Eyes:
