Caffeine is a stimulant found in several foods and drinks like tea and coffee. Caffeine can also be found in kola nuts and chocolate-flavored snacks. It is quite popular in everyday meals because of its ability to help people regain mental clarity when tired.

An overdose of caffeine can cause a variety of symptoms and side effects such as dizziness, headache, sleeplessness, and fever, among others, which may not appear as serious as vomiting, chest discomfort, and convulsions. Some of these serious symptoms may require urgent medical attention. Caffeine in high dosages may also increase the risk of miscarriage or low birth weight in expectant mothers. It should be limited or avoided entirely during pregnancy.

Coffee and coffee beans. Source: Pexel Photos

However, avoiding caffeine can be difficult because it is a common ingredient in many foods and drinks. According to Mayo Clinic, most healthy persons may tolerate up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day. Four cups of brewed coffee, ten cans of Coca-Cola, or two “energy shot” drinks have about the same amount of caffeine. Important to mention that caffeine concentration in beverages varies significantly, particularly in energy drinks.

Given this insight into caffeine education, we must take care of our bodies and monitor the amount of caffeine we ingest regularly. However, caffeine affects each individual differently, hence not a one-size-fits-all. It is, therefore, important to learn how your body reacts to it.

Has caffeine consumption ever affected you negatively? Let us know in the comments below.