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The Side Effects of too Much Caffeine

Caffeine was first discovered in coffee and is considered to be one of the bitter alkaloids. Caffeine is also naturally found in tea, beans, and some fruits. However, over the years, caffeine has found a place in many beverages including colas, diet drinks, and energy drinks. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system in our brain, and it is a psychoactive substance; however, it not illegal, unlike other such substances. Caffeine is also a diuretic. Globally, approximately 120,000 tons of caffeine is consumed every year. Caffeine is mostly used recreationally and socially; it is also used to increase alertness and keep awake. Medically, caffeine is used to correct irregular heartbeats and treat apnea in newborn infants. Apart from helping one stay awake, caffeine is also known to improve flow of thought and increase focus. While the consumption of caffeine in moderation is considered to be safe, and in some cases beneficial to overall health, increased consumption is known to have several negative effects on the body.

Side Effects. Some of the side effects of too much caffeine are as follows:

* An excessive intake of caffeine intake can result in an increased heart rate. It is also known to cause anxiety, tremors, and restlessness (coffee jitters) among people.

* Being a diuretic, too much caffeine can also cause increased urination. This, in turn, can lead to dehydration. Research has shown that it is advisable to drink at least 8 oz of water, when consuming caffeinated drinks.

* Nausea and vomiting are also some of the side effects of too much caffeine.

* Caffeine has been known to cause depression and difficulty in sleeping.

* For women, caffeine has been found to increase the risk of fibrocystic breast disease and heart and blood vessel disease. It is also known to affect reproductive function.

* Another side effect of too much caffeine is caffeinism, or caffeine dependency. People who are addicted to caffeine often experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop its intake. These symptoms include irritability, headaches, and drowsiness. In fact, hand tremors are also often noticed among those who are suffering from withdrawal.

* Caffeine can also cause facial flushing and fatigue.

At the end of the day, the key is moderation. Enjoying a cup of coffee or a caffeinated drink every now and then is fine as long as you steer clear of an addiction. However, it should be noted that most people have a varying tolerance for caffeine, and so it is important to know what your limits are.

Article Source: http://www.articlewide.com

Information about the Author:

Kevin Pederson, webmaster for home remedies, Home Remedies gives you natural cures to treat daily commonly faced ailments in the comfort of your home. He also writes for other health sites such as yoga, hair-n-skin care and more.

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