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CAFFEINE

Facts

• Caffeine, (chemically defined as 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine), is a psychoactive Central Nervous System stimulant, the most widely used psychostimulant in the world, (some studies show that 90% of U.S. adults consume high doses of caffeine  - 200 milligrams - on a regular basis, despite recommendations from the FDA).
• It is naturally found in many plants where it is produced as a pesticide - it is highly toxic to many insects, pests, and herbivores - as well as an herbicide, killing other plants in soil to inhibit the germination and growth of competing seeds.
• According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, when consumed by humans, it takes about 30 to 60 minutes for caffeine to reach its peak level in the blood. The body typically eliminates half of the drug in 3 to 5 hours, and the remainder can linger for 8 to 14 hours.
• Caffeine is addictive, and many people who consume it regularly display "clinically meaningful features of caffeine dependence." (Have you ever gone for a few days without your soda or coffee, and experienced sluggishness or a headache?)
• One of the most popular ways people consume high-dose caffeine products today is through energy drinks, many of which contain five times the amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee, (see this chart to find out how much caffeine different drinks contain). Some popular energy drinks actually contain less caffeine than a cup of coffee and instead are filled with tons of chemicals and sugar, so you end up loading up on empty calories for less energy.
• Especially for the young developing brain, Caffeine interferes with development, causes cognitive and academic declines, disrupts sleep and can increase mental health issues like depression, and can increase drug use, addiction and other risky behaviors. 

See our FAQ Page to learn how caffeine effects the developing brain


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​The Effects of Caffeine

 ​Caffeine can cause insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, nausea, increased heart rate, and other side effects. Larger doses might cause headache, anxiety, and chest pain. Caffeine is likely unsafe when used in high doses. It can cause irregular heartbeat and even death. 

The Brain
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Caffeine acts as a center nervous system stimulant. When it reaches your brain, the most noticeable effect is alertness. You'll feel more awake and less tired, so it's a common ingredient in medications to treat or manager drowsiness, headaches, and migraines. 

Symptoms of Caffeine Addiction

• Dizziness
• Feeling Shaky
• Headache
• Increased Blood Pressure
• Nervousness
• Racing Heart, or Other Heartbeat Abnormalities
• Sleep Issues