It is even an ingredient in beverages and foods that are marketed to children.
While caffeine has some health benefits, it does have significant negative effects on the body and brain.
Also Known As:Because caffeine is legal, slang terms are generally not used when referring to it.
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Drug Class:Caffeine is classified as astimulant.
It increases activity in the central nervous system.
On its own, caffeine has no flavor and does not have any nutritional value.
What Does Caffeine Do?
Caffeine can improve mood and help people feel more productive.
It is believed to work by blocking the neurotransmitter adenosine’s receptors, increasing excitability in the brain.
It can improve mental performanceup to a point.
But it’s no shortcut to improving your performance.
Caffeine might improve reaction times, but expectations may also play a role.
Expectancy effects play a significant role in the effects that drugs have on people’s perceptions and behaviors.
At recommended doses, caffeine can have a beneficial effect on mood.
Caffeine influences neurotransmitters that play a role in mood and mental performance including norepinephrine, dopamine, and acetylcholine.
Caffeine citrate is also used as a short-term treatment for breathing problems in premature infants.
This is known as tachycardia or cardiac arrhythmia and can be serious.
If you think your heartbeat is abnormal, check with your doctor.
Blood pressure: Caffeine consumption may raise blood pressure.
If someone is experiencing these symptoms, contact emergency services immediately.
Common Questions
Some people think caffeine improves their memory.
People also often wonder if excess caffeine consumption might contribute to heart problems.
A common misconception is that caffeine use can cause infertility.
Another common question is whether caffeine pills and other high-dose products are different from food and beverages containing caffeine.
Tolerance takes place when you must consume larger or more frequent doses to get to have the same effects.
Dependence involves needing to keep taking the substance to make it ward off unpleasantwithdrawaleffects.
How Long Does Caffeine Stay in Your System?
Caffeine withdrawal usually begins within 12 to 24 hours after consuming the last dose.
These unpleasant effects usually begin to subside within two or three days.
The best approach is to gradually taper your caffeine consumption.
Doing this lowers your dependence gradually while minimizing the negative effects of withdrawal.
Try eliminating these sources progressively by replacing them with lower-caffeine or caffeine-free alternatives.
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