Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. It is one of the
most popular drugs in the world, consumed by up to 90% of
people in the world in one form or another, but mostly in
beverages. It is a naturally occurring substance found in plants
like cocoa beans, tea leaves, and kola nuts.
Caffeine's strongest effects are felt for about an hour after taking
it, but some effects last 4 to 6 hours. Caffeine causes increased
neuron firing in the brain, which the pituitary gland perceives as
an emergency and therefore causes the adrenal glands to release
adrenaline. Caffeine also increases dopamine levels, the
neurotransmitter that is affected by drugs like amphetamines and
heroin. Obviously, it does this on a much lower level than those
drugs, but this may be the source of caffeine's addictive quality.
While caffeine is mildly addictive, it has not been shown to have
a direct link with any serious health risks. Still, anyone who has
been up all night after drinking too much coffee can tell you that
caffeine can affect a person's mood and sleep pattern.
Here are some of the frequent effects of caffeine:
• Caffeine is a diuretic. Caffeine prompts the body to lose