A recent report conducted by Leicester and Leeds universities links caffeine to babies born with low birth weight, when pregnant women consume the drug. Subsequently, the British Food Standards Agency (FSA) has lowered its recommended levels of the stimulant from a maximum of 300mg a day to 200mg - a reduction of a third.
The university study which prompted the revised guidance involved 2,500 pregnant women. The British Coffee Association said it would be revising its guidance to healthcare professionals and consumers in line with these recommendations with immediate effect.
Other Effects of Caffeine on the Human Body
This is not the first time that caffeine has been criticised by scientists. It has been said to cause dementia, anaphylaxis, ADD (attention Deficit Disorder), a deterioration in intellect, hyperactivity and reduced mental functioning and intellect (see sources). All this for a standard ingredient in the nation’s favourite beverage is quite a frightening thought.
Unlike illicit drugs, caffeine is found in most hot drinks worldwide. At every turn people are lured to coffee bars and encouraged to consume cola drinks, resulting in an extremely large amount of the toxin being consumed, every day.
Caffeine consumption for Diabetics and Hypoglycemics
Caffeine causes a temporary ‘buzz’ which is caused by the release of chemicals which increase alertness and stimulate the body. As a stimulant, caffeine can provide a quick boost of energy which makes consumers feel more alert and less sluggish after the drug has been consumed. However, this buzz is quickly diminished as the caffeine causes blood sugar levels to drop. A drop in blood sugar creates a feeling of sleepiness and inertia, and can even be dangerous for those with established medical problems such as diabetics or hypoglycemics.
The Positive Benefits of Consuming Caffeine
Caffeine is an integral part of most working people’s routine. Trips to get coffee during the day can provide a welcome relief from the daily grind. Coffee and tea form such a large part of everyday life that it is inconceivable to imagine life without it. Caffeine provides benefits such as alertness (invaluable for drivers who travel long distances, as it could save lives) and also increases the metabolism and provides energy for people who exercise.
Avoiding Caffeine in Everyday Foods and Drinks
Nowadays, caffeine-free alternatives to favourite drinks are commonplace. Decaffeinated ground or instant coffee is indistinguishable from its caffeinated counterpart, as is tea. Colas can be purchased without added caffeine for those people concerned about the amount they consume. Even the most heavily-addicted person can rescue or eliminate caffeine intake over the course of a matter of days, leaving them actually more refreshed and revitalised than if they were relying upon the drug to stay focused and alert.
All things in Moderation
While caffeine is by no means the worst drug out there, it is worth bearing in mind that it does have some negative side effects in addition to the positive attributes it offers on a daily basis. It is worth cutting down intake and using caffeine-free alternatives, if only to monitor how the body reacts positively to a reduction in consumption.
Sources:
- BBC News website
- An online list of scientific publications which outline the dangers of excessive coffee consumption
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