topic last week was drug abuse. while doing some of the readings i came across a little section on caffeine. i thought i'd share my new found knowledge with all you coffee addicts out there.
did you know that coffee is the second largest commodity traded in the world, only behind oil?!?!
caffeine is a CNS (central nervous system) stimulant which has a mechanism of action similar to amphetamines and cocaine! it increases dopamine activity within the brain and mimics adenosine. adenosine is responsible for the increases in alertness, concentration, cognitive function, blood pressure as well as mood elevation and anxiety.
with chronic toxicity you can get insomnia, GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease - this is where the gastric acids from your stomach enter into your oesophagus and irritate your oesophagus), atrial arrythmias (where the atria of your heart beat in an uncoordinated/irregular manner) and difficulty conceiving. there's also an established association with babies of low birth weight.
caffeine is also associated with high cholesterol levels - lipids in coffee aren't removed by espresso machines or during the decaffeination process.
physical dependence can result in withdrawal symptoms. these include: irritability, headaches, restlessness, fatigue, poor concentration & muscle stiffness.
BUT there is SOME good news. withdrawal symptoms are usually seen when you consume more than 350mg of caffeine each day. how much is 350mg of caffeine?
a can of coca-cola contains ~40mg.
a can of red bull contains ~80mg.
a cup of instant coffee comes in at ~70mg.
and a strong cup of espresso contains ~120mg.
so as long as you're having maybe a cup of coffee in the morning, those withdrawal symptoms are unlikely. but if you're having 3 or more... well you might just be entering the DANGER ZOOOOOOONE!
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