We have probably heard the ill-effects of caffeine many times and yet many people have a dilemma when it comes to consuming caffeine. To quit caffeine is not as easy as one may think. Quitting caffeine altogether may pose serious health risks. Therefore, one should see to it that instead of adopting the "Cold Turkey method, healthier alternatives or gradual quitting of caffeine are better choices. Perhaps one question that lingers around one's mind is whether to have caffeine or not? Let's take a look at the FAQ's and see if it answers your questions

What is Caffeine actually? Where is it found?

Caffeine is known to be an alkaloid which consists of many compounds. According to research, there are more than 60 species of plants known where caffeine is found. High concentrations of caffeine are found in cocoa beans, kola nuts and tea leaves.

What effect does Caffeine have on us?

The effect of caffeine is seen obvious when you have it yourself. You feel fresh, active and very good. Your mood improves. This shows that caffeine has a considerable effect on your nervous system. The reason how you stay awake the whole night working on two-three mugs of coffee is because caffeine stimulates your nervous system. Caffeine is also known to be a mood-altering drug. The reason why it is called so is because the characteristics of caffeine resemble to that of a drug- once you depend on it, it's hard to leave it. It is known to have an effect on mood. I have met college students who cannot imagine their life without coffee. For some, coffee is not something they like but rather a compulsory choice. The habit continues and the ill-effects of caffeine are seen when you reach your late 40's or 50's.

Now that you have said about the effects on us, I have nearly 6-8 cups of coffee everyday. Is that normal?

Absolutely Not. It is not normal at all. According to the studies and research conducted, one should have no more than 200-300 mg of caffeine a day. Those 6-8 cups make nearly 990-1000 mg of caffeine! You are exceeding above the normal limit- probably three times to that of the normal content!!

I heard percolated coffees are better than drip coffees. Is this true?

True- but partially. Both have more or less the same caffeine content, marking a difference by 50 or something. If we are talking about safe consumption here, decaffeinated coffees are an excellent choice. If you are "hooked to coffee, decaffeinated coffees can serve as a good alternative.

Are coffees the only sources of Caffeine?

Actually, No. There are many sources such as chocolates, soft drinks, teas, stimulants (Vivarin and NoDoz), Diuretics (Aqua Ban) and even a few weight control pills (Dietac).

How do I keep my kids away from Caffeine?

Kids probably consume a quarter of what adults consume, in terms of caffeine. The only sources they have access to are the chocolates and soft drinks. Healthier alternatives should do well such as instead of soft drinks, give them fresh juices. Let that creativity in culinary flow and make your kids love the fruits and veggies. You can't possibly keep your kids away from chocolates, so let them have it once in a while.

OK! I admit, I am "Hooked! to coffee and am scared to have any ill-effects. How do I monitor my consumption levels?

There are two ways to monitor daily your caffeine consumption. One would be by the manual method. Maintain a small diary (a cute one) where you would write down all that you consumed the whole day. Pick out those which contain caffeine. I have already listed a few sources for you here. Then write down the amount of how much you consumed. The next day, make sure you cut down your caffeine consumption. Say, you have nearly 6 mugs of coffee every day, cut it down to five. Then record it in your diary. For the next three days, let it be the same way and then the fourth day, cut it to 4 mugs and in this way, you would gradually consume less, if you have a problem leaving it entirely.

Thanks a bunch for that. Aren't you going to tell us anything about ill-effects caffeine if we consume it more than the required level?

You are already aware of it. But let me summarize it here. High caffeine levels are linked to high blood pressure, addiction, gastro-intestinal problems ( especially acidity), increased urination, decrease in bone density ( can lead to osteoporosis in women), nervousness, headache and many more. Last month, I had discussed about Anorexia Nervosa. Consuming caffeine in excess can also lead to anorexia, so Beware!

Thanks once again for all the help.

You are welcome anytime. Best Of Luck with your "Quit Caffeine journey.

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