Caffeine - Everything You Need To Know

Caffeine has been used by humans for many years. It is thought that the Chinese were consuming tea for the benefits of caffeine as far back as 2700 BC, and now we have offices offering real fresh coffee from bean to cup coffee machines. However, there are various opinions on caffeine consumption, some praising the health benefits and others advising that it is best avoided, but what are the pro's and cons?

Sources of caffeine
The most common source of caffeine is coffee, but it is also found to a lesser extent in tea, cocoa and soft drinks (as well as a flavour within foods). Despite the name, decaffeinated coffee still contains an amount of caffeine too - so one to be aware of!

Caffeine is also found in energy drinks and certain medications.

Benefits of caffeine
Caffeine is often used for an energy boost, but it may have other benefits.
It is thought that caffeine may help to relieve depression, as it increases the amount of dopamine in the brain. It has even been suggested that those who consume caffeine have a lower risk of suicide.

A recent study has found that caffeine may help to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
When caffeine is consumed in caffeinated coffee, it may help to provide protection against several serious health conditions. It is thought that coffee can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke and certain types of cancer. These benefits are only attributed to caffeinated coffee, not decaffeinated.

Research has shown that topical application of caffeine can help certain conditions, such as baldness and cataracts.

Harmful effects of caffeine
Although there are potential benefits to consuming caffeine, it may also cause health problems.

Drinking more than four cups of coffee per day has been linked to an increase in mortality. A study found that there was a 21 per cent increase in mortality in men who drank more than four cups daily. However, the study also found that those who consumed a lot of caffeine were more likely to smoke and have poor fitness levels.

Caffeine can also be harmful to those who suffer from hypertension, as it can raise blood pressure.

Consuming a large amount of caffeine has been linked with incontinence, with research showing that women who use a lot of caffeine are 70 per cent more likely to develop this problem.

Excessive caffeine consumption is thought to cause several minor ailments, including upset stomach, migraine and insomnia. Consumption of caffeine may also reduce fertility in women.

Caffeine can be addictive, so people who are trying to reduce their intake often suffer withdrawal symptoms. These may include headaches, irritability, depression, lethargy and constipation. Usually, these symptoms will only last from a few days to a few weeks.

Despite the potential harmful effects, it is generally agreed that caffeine is safe in moderation, even offering some benefits. The safe limit normally given is 300mg per day, but this may vary between individuals as certain groups may have a lower safe limit, or need to avoid it altogether. If there are no specific issues, there is no reason not to enjoy caffeine in moderation.

Author Graeme K. It was with the introduction of a couple of bean to cup coffee machines in our offices that triggered the thought that I should investigate the wonderful 'caffeine' a little more - before my consumtion went through the roof (bean to cup fresh coffee is just sublime, so much better and more enjoyable than instant). I am happy to note that I am within the boundaries of reasonable consumption, so should just enjoy the benefits!