Spooning out some good caffeine advice

CHECK-UP:Although excessive caffeine can lead to a fast heart rate, stopping it abruptly can cause other problems

What is caffeine?

Caffeine is a substance found naturally in the seeds, leaves and fruits of many plants. These include tea leaves, coffee beans and cocoa beans, which we consume when we drink tea and coffee or when we eat chocolate.

Although caffeine exists naturally in certain plants, it can also be produced synthetically and is used as an additive in food and drinks. Caffeine has no flavour and can be removed from a food by a chemical process called decaffeination.

It can also be found in over-the-counter medications such as pain killers, appetite suppressants and cold medicines.

How does it affect the body?

Caffeine is absorbed and distributed throughout the body very quickly. After absorption, it passes into the brain where it acts as a central nervous system stimulant. As it has diuretic properties, caffeine is not accumulated or stored in the body, but is excreted in the urine some hours after it has been consumed.

Contrary to popular belief, caffeine does not reduce the effects of alcohol, so a cup of coffee will not “sober up” someone who is drunk. Caffeine may be used as a treatment for migraine and will, for short time spans, relieve fatigue or drowsiness.

However, excessive caffeine intake can lead to a fast heart rate, increased urination, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, anxiety, depression, tremors, and difficulty sleeping.

Abrupt withdrawal of caffeine may cause headaches, drowsiness, irritability, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms. Reduce caffeine intake gradually to prevent any symptoms of withdrawal.

What would be considered a moderate daily intake of caffeine?

The body has no nutritional requirement for caffeine. However, a moderate tea or coffee intake is not likely to have a negative effect on health, as long as the person lives an otherwise healthy lifestyle.

While three 8oz cups of coffee (about 250 milligrams of caffeine) per day would be considered a moderate intake of caffeine, 10 8oz cups per day would be considered excessive.

Although caffeine is not recommended as part of a child’s normal diet, it is thought to be safe for children in moderate amounts. However, it may negatively affect their nutrition, particularly if caffeinated beverages replace nutritious drinks such as milk.

A child who consumes caffeine may also eat less, because caffeine suppresses the appetite. Because of its stimulant properties, caffeine should be avoided by children who are hyperactive.