CAFFEINE INTAKE

Caffeine is a substance that is found naturally in certain plants such as tea leaves, coffee, and cocoa beans. It can also be man made and added to foods and drinks. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant and a natural diuretic ( a substance that helps rid your body of fluids). Caffeine has no nutritional benefit and can be avoided. It is quickly absorbed and passes quickly into the brain. It does not collect in the bloodstream or get stored in the body. It is passed from the body in urine many hours after being consumed.
Excessive caffeine may cause a fast heart rate, anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, nausea, restlessness, tremors, frequent urination and vomiting. Suddenly stopping caffeine intake can cause withdrawal symptoms like drowsiness, headaches, irritability, nausea and vomiting. Large amounts of caffeine consumption can interfere with the absorption of calcium and lead to osteoporosis (thinning of bones). In women excess caffeine may also cause painful, lumpy breasts (fibrocystic disease). Caffeine in children can decrease their appetite and lead to decreased nutrition as soda may take the place of nutritional drinks such as milk or juice.
Moderate consumption of caffeine is not likely to be harmful as long as you observe other healthy habits (2-3 8 ounce (240 ml) cups of coffee or 5 servings of soda or tea). Though be aware that soda still contains a lot of calories and excess consumption may contribute to obesity.
Caffeine has also been added to medications used to treat headaches and has also been shown to be beneficial in treatment of asthma.