Caffeine is found in Coffee, which is commonly taken by many people around the world, chocolate, tea, energy drinks and in soda drinks. Some people may wonder about decaffeinated coffee etc. This is due to health concerns and for those who take high doses (several cups of Coffee every day, and some Coffee-lovers don't enjoy decaffeinated coffee as much as they like regular Coffee available in many flavors.
The first link (taken from Medical News today) probes the query - "How does Caffeine affect our health ?"
Some excerpts from the first article:
"The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) state that the average amount of caffeine consumed in the US is approximately 300 mg per person per day - the equivalent to between two and four cups of coffee. This is considered to be a moderate caffeine intake, which according to many studies, can promote a variety of health benefits."
"But some studies claim otherwise, even suggesting that one or two cups of coffee a day may negatively impact our health. So, what are we to believe?"
As potential health benefits of caffeine, the first link article says the following:
"Last year, Medical News Today reported on a study suggesting that consuming three cups of coffee a day may reduce the risk of liver cancer by 50%, while another study suggests that drinking four cups a day could halve the risk of mouth and throat cancer. Caffeine consumption has also been associated with positive effects on the brain. Other studies have also suggested that caffeine intake may protect against type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, cardiovascular disease and stroke. "
The Medical News Today article also warns of negative consequences from caffeine consumption, particularly if ingested in high doses.
"The Mayo Clinic state that consuming more than 500-600 mg of caffeine a day may lead to insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, an upset stomach, a fast heartbeat and even muscle tremors. However, previous research has linked even moderate amounts of caffeine to negative health effects. Last year, Medical News Today reported on a study suggesting that consuming 300 mg of caffeine a day during pregnancy may increase the risk of low birth weight babies, while other research suggests that drinking four cups of coffee a day may increase the risk of early death."
The first link article (by Honor Whiteman) also notes that the effects of caffeine can vary in each individual, which may explain why there are mixed messages surrounding whether caffeine is good or bad for us.
Another excerpt from Honor's article: "Meredith said that based on the negative side effects caffeine consumption can have, doctors should be discussing caffeine use with their patients to determine whether they are ingesting safe levels of the stimulant."
The second link gives 13 harmful effects of Caffeine.
This query is to bring an awareness about Caffeine. Comments are welcome!
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/271707.php
http://www.caffeineinformer.com/harmful-effects-of-caffeine