Caffeine FACTS That You Probably Don't Know

Caffeine is not addictive.  
 Although caffeine is considered a mild stimulant, it’s not addictive, according to the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse. 

Unlike classic stimulants – think cocaine and amphetamines – there’s rarely a strong compulsion to use caffeine. But caffeine can be habit-forming. That’s why you may feel mild withdrawal symptoms if you skip your morning cup of coffee or afternoon pick-me-up. Typical symptoms include headache, restlessness, and irritability. 


Should you decide to give up caffeine, don’t go cold turkey; instead, slowly decrease your consumption over a week. Really though, why bother? Studies show moderate caffeine intake actually enhances your mood and improves alertness. 

For adults, the American Dietetic Association suggests no more than 200 mg to 300 mg a day, which equals 2-3 cups of coffee.


Caffeine will not make heart disease worse.
Doctors often tell cardiac patients, especially those with high blood pressure, to avoid caffeine. But there’s little proof that it raises the risk of heart attack, sudden death or abnormal heart rhythms. In fact, coffee drinking may reduce risk of heart disease -- one of the benefits of caffeine.

People who drank 3-5 cups of coffee a day had the lowest risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a 2013 meta-analysis by Harvard University.

Drinking tea, both black and green, may also have heart-healthy benefits.


Caffeine does not cause hyperactivity in children.
Studies show that a moderate amount of caffeine (40 mg to 200 mg) doesn’t make them hyperactive. (For reference, that 12-ounce can of Coke has 35 mg.)

Like adults, kids will get an energy boost from caffeine. But whether it’s soda, green tea or coffee, “on average, one serving a day wouldn’t be considered harmful overall for children”.

A bigger concern is the empty calories in soda and high-energy drinks that teens like.  In fact, small amounts of caffeine may help children diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can sharpen their focus and stimulate them to answer questions

Caffeine is not linked to fibrocystic breast disease. 
Caffeine intake isn’t related to the benign condition of lumpy breasts, reports the American Medical Association.

“There's no evidence to support the idea that caffeine causes fibrocystic changes,” says Katherine B. Lee, M.D., a staff physician in Cleveland Clinic’s Breast Center.  “It seems to contribute to breast pain, but doesn't cause breast cancer".

That's because breast pain is hormonal and caffeine causes blood vessels to dilate, adding to normal monthly breast tenderness. If a woman experiences breast pain,  it is recommended that she try cutting down on the caffeine intake.

Caffeine is NOT packed with calories.
On their own, coffee and tea have no calories or fat. 

It’s the flavored syrups, whole milk and cream that turn innocent caffeinated drinks into calorie bombs. Those tasty blended drinks can contain 200-600 calories.  And the creamers found in many offices? Two tablespoons can add 80 calories and four grams of fat.

To cut calories, choose the smallest serving, either 8 or 12 ounces.  Order your beverage with fat-free or skim milk and skip the syrup, whipped cream, and sprinkles!


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