The substance is considered the most popular and consumed drug in the world
Caffeine is considered the most popular and consumed drug in the world and much of this fame is due to the fact that the substance is a component of several types of drinks, such as energy drinks, soft drinks, chocolates, mate tea or black tea, as well as to the coffee itself.
According to the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), an adult should not consume more than 400 mg of caffeine per day (the equivalent of four cups of coffee). Among children and adolescents there is no worldwide consensus or recommendation establishing intake limits.
According to the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics (SBP), the consumption of caffeine by children and adolescents does not bring health benefits and, on the contrary, it can also pose some risks, such as interfering with neurocognitive development, influencing the cardiovascular system and cause addiction. .
The body warns that children and adolescents are more susceptible to the acute effects of caffeine and are at greater risk of poisoning. Having not been chronically exposed to the substance, young people do not have pharmacological tolerance and, for this reason, the doses of caffeine considered safe for this segment of the population are much lower.
Myths and truths about caffeine
To learn more about caffeine, discover some myths and truths about this popular stimulant:
1. The effects of caffeine last for hours
REAL. The effects of caffeine linger long after a person finishes a cup of coffee, and it can take five to six hours for the body to eliminate just half of the caffeine consumed. That’s why drinking a cup of coffee in the afternoon can affect a person’s sleep. Furthermore, in people who are more sensitive to caffeine, the effects can last even longer.
2. Sensitivity to caffeine decreases with aging
Myth. Older people may be more sensitive to caffeine because their bodies take longer to process it.
3. Caffeine can make anxiety symptoms worse
REAL. Second National Institute of Mental HealthAnyone suffering from anxiety disorders should avoid caffeine, because it can end up worsening symptoms, which include exaggerated worry and tension.
4. Caffeine helps a person stay sober
Myth. Contrary to what many people think, caffeine does not help drunk people sober up. In reality, this is a risky combination. On the one hand, caffeine is a stimulant capable of putting the body in a state of alert and making us feel less tired. On the other hand, alcohol is initially a stimulant, but later produces the opposite effect of caffeine, leaving people drowsy and tired. So, the combination of these two can generate a false sense of security in the brain, that is, people believe they are more alert and less drunk. But that’s not what really happens.
5. Consuming too much caffeine can be fatal
REAL. Deaths from caffeine overdose are very rare, but can occur, usually caused by seizures or an irregular heartbeat. The amount of caffeine that could lead to an overdose varies depending on size, age and gender. In general this is only possible with the use of supplements, as it would take a very large amount of coffee to reach such a dangerous dose. However, drinking too much can cause anxiety, tremors, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
