8 Side Effects of Excessive Caffeine Consumption

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Caffeine, a stimulant found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and even chocolate, is widely consumed for its energy-boosting effect. However, excessive consumption of caffeine can have negative effects on your health. 

Here is a list of the side effects of consuming excessive amounts of caffeine:

1. Anxiety and Nervousness

High doses of caffeine may increase anxiety and cause nervousness. This is due to the stimulant effect of caffeine on the central nervous system, which can increase the stress response and worsen anxiety disorders.

2. Insomnia

Caffeine can keep people awake by blocking a chemical called adenosine, which causes someone to fall asleep. Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to sleep disturbances and insomnia, which can also contribute to fatigue and decreased productivity during the day.

3. Digestive problems

Excessive caffeine consumption can cause digestive issues including acidity and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It stimulates the production of stomach acid, which can cause acid reflux and heartburn, and aggravate conditions such as stomach ulcers and gastritis.

4. Cardiovascular issues

According to Dr. Manish Mittal, a consultant at Bhailal Amin General Hospital in Vadodara, caffeine can have a significant impact on the cardiovascular system, causing increased heart rate, hypertension, and irregular heartbeat.

"People with heart disease or hypertension should consume caffeine with caution as it can aggravate these problems and even cause chest pain," he said, as quoted by the Times of India, Friday, June 28, 2024.

5. Affects blood sugar levels

Excessive caffeine can affect blood sugar levels, potentially interfering with diabetes management. This can cause short-term spikes in blood glucose and insulin levels, making it difficult to control diabetes. Diabetics should carefully monitor their caffeine intake.

6. Worsens neurological disorders

People with neurological conditions such as epilepsy or Parkinson's disease may find that caffeine makes their symptoms worse. Although caffeine does not cause these conditions, it can worsen seizures in epilepsy and tremors in Parkinson's disease, making treatment more difficult.

7. Glaucoma and eye health

Caffeine can increase intraocular pressure, which may worsen glaucoma. Patients with this eye condition should use caution when consuming caffeine to avoid worsening symptoms and risking further eye damage.

8. Bladder control problems

Caffeine acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production and potentially causing bladder control problems, especially in the elderly. This can lead to increased frequency and urgency of urination, causing discomfort.

Overall, although caffeine can have beneficial effects in moderate amounts, excessive caffeine consumption can cause a variety of health problems. It's important to monitor your caffeine intake to avoid these negative side effects and maintain your overall health.

TIMES OF INDIA

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