Caffeine
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[ Effect on the Mind | Effect on the Heart | Effect on the Digestive System | Effect on Tumors | Effect on Bones | Caffeine Content of Beverages | Effects Chart ]
Many students drink coffee to keep them awake and vigorously burn the midnight oil for examinations. But caffeine, even in moderate amounts, is not good for your health. Taking in too much caffeine can lead to high blood pressure, which in turn leads to other diseases.
Caffeine stimulates the mind, making it feel less fatigued and more alert. The mind only FEELS less fatigue. In actual fact, energy is used to maintain this perception of the mind, and when the effect of caffeine wears off, the person feels even more tired than before. The mind also FEELS more confident. But, in fact, is your awareness is reduced. Caffeine often causes depression after the effect wears off, and can lead to addiction.
Caffeine stimulates the heart to work harder, and this increases the blood pressure.
Caffeine stimulates the flow of stomach acid and protein-digesting enzymes which can cause damage to the digestive system, leading to ulcers.
Caffeine can cause "lumpy breasts" or fibrocystic disease. A study showed that those with the disease recovered after discontinuing caffeine-containing beverages.
Caffeine stimulates the flow of urine, increasing calcium loss. Calcium is a main component of the bones and a deficiency in calcium leads to bone demineralization and weakening of the bones.
| Beverage | Caffeine in milligrams |
| Soft Drinks | 30 to 60 per can (depending on brand) |
| Tea | 40 per cup |
| Coffee | 80 per cup |
| Chocolate | 8 per 1 ounce bar |
| Effects | Illness Linked to Caffeine |
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This page has been authored for participation in
the 1997 Thinkquest Competition.
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