Measuring your life with coffee spoons
1984
Many people are cutting back on caffeine since it has been suggested that it may contribute to health problems. Caffeine, one of the methylxanthines, is found in coffee beans, cola nuts, cocoa beans and tea leaves. Caffeine can also be found in a variety of non-prescriptive medications, and it is sometimes used as a flavoring for baked goods. Acting as a stimulant to the central nervous system, caffeine's "upper" effect gives a sharper focus to physical and mental tasks. There are undesirable effects also, depending on amount consumed and the amount customarily consumed. "Caffeinism," a syndrome likened to an anxiety neurosis, may develop in some individuals. Caffeine is mildly addictive, and in doses over 3,000 mg may be fatal. Caffeine consumption is related to birth defects in rats but has not been associated to birth defects in humans. A modest ingestion of caffeinated beverages does not appear to be a hazard to nursing infants. Removal of the methylxanthines from the diet helps to control cystic breast disease. The association between caffeine and heart disease and blood cholesterol, and between caffeine and cancer is unclear. Tabular data on the caffeine content of beverages and nonprescription drugs is presented. (emc)
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