Monday, November 12, 2007

Caffeine woes




Caffeine- it's in your soda, your coffee, your life. Despite it's obvious effects in adding energy, did you know that caffeine also has some very negative side effects?
When you injest caffeine, many parts of your body are effected. First, the drug will hit your hormones, including adrenaline and dopamine, making you feel jumpy and alert.
At the same time, it will also effect the hormone cortisol, which is responsible for weight gain and is also linked to diabetes.
With all the changes in your hormone level, caffeine has also been linked to mild depression, stemming from the point when caffeine begins to wear off and your body goes through a 'low'.
Also, the drug has been linked to sleep- or the lack therof.
Similarly, it has been known to add to dehydration, and because caffeine increases production of urine, calcium can be lost in the process, leading to concerns of bone marrow health.


To help you, loyal readers, eliminate caffeine from your diets (slowly) here are some tips that I think might help.

1. If you drink coffee, try to put more milk or cream into it, to decrease the amount of caffeine.
2. Try to limit your intake of caffeine to one drink per day, whether it's coffee or soda.
3. If you're looking for a boost of energy, try exercise instead. Just one set of 10 jumping jacks should help increase blood flow and boost endorphins, making you feel more energized.
4. If you take caffeine pills (and you really, really shouldn't) try to take them before exercising, so that your workout is enhanced and the pills work there way through your system.
5. If caffeine affects your sleep, don't drink any past 2 p.m. That way, you're sure to be able to fall asleep.

Now, if you'll excuse me, Starbucks is having a sale on frappacinos.

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