[vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]As reported by a survey administered by the FDA, nearly 80% of American adults consume some form of caffeine on a daily basis, but do they consume safely? Caffeine is a common drug found in many products around the nation. And, while consumed regularly in controlled amounts can still be considered healthy, consumed in large quantities can cause devastating health complications or disease.
Caffeine produces physiological effects on the mind and body, with the most impact being on the central nervous system. Caffeine first begins by impacting the brain which then affects the body’s cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, reproductive and respiratory functions. Even when caffeine is consumed in the smallest amounts, it will change the electro-physiological beat of the heart. When consumed in large amounts, it can lead to heart disease.
When it comes to consumption, studies show that for a healthy adult it is safe to consume 400mg of caffeine daily. This is the equivalent to approximately 4 cups of coffee or roughly 1 energy drink, which can have 300mg or more. Due to everyone’s tolerance and health circumstances, each one of us will have different reactions to different amounts of intake. But, because caffeine is a drug, it has the tendency to become addictive which can lead to withdrawal for some individuals.
As for women who are pregnant, considering being pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended that consumption of caffeine be non-existent or no more than 200mg per day, despite clinical evidence being scarce. When pregnant, anything consumed takes much longer to process and leave the body. If you’re considering pregnancy, breastfeeding, or just concerned with caffeine in relation to your health, consult with your primary care physician.
If caffeine is part of your daily routine or you just drink it here and there, all users need to be aware that caffeine is a drug and can be addictive with serious consequences if not consumed with care. To find out the safest way to consume caffeine specifically for you, consult with your physician and ALWAYS listen to your body.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
