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Caffeine: What Are The Benefits And Risks?

Read time: 2 min

Caffeine is a stimulant drug that is found in many natural plants, including coffee and tea. It is the most widely used stimulant in the world and one of the most consumed substances in America.

While caffeine can provide benefits such as increased focus, energy, and motivation, drinking too much can also have negative effects. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how caffeine affects your body and how to strike a balance between its benefits and risks.

Benefits of Caffeine

Caffeine can provide a range of benefits for those who consume it in moderation. Here are a few of the ways caffeine can enhance your day-to-day life:

• Increased alertness and wakefulness: If you're feeling tired or drowsy, caffeine can help you stay awake and alert, especially when you're working under pressure or driving long distances.
• Improved focus and motivation: Caffeine has been shown to improve focus and motivation, making it a great option for those who need to perform well on tasks that require high-intensity focus, such as a presentation or exam.
• Boosted energy levels: Although it's a common misconception, caffeine doesn't actually give you energy, instead, it informs your body not to sleep.

Risks of drinking too much caffeine

Risks of Drinking Too Much Caffeine

While caffeine can provide benefits, it's important to be mindful of the risks associated with drinking too much. Here are a few of the negative effects you may experience if you consume too much caffeine:

• Anxiety: Caffeine has been shown to cause anxiety in some individuals, especially those who are sensitive to it.
• Increased blood pressure: Drinking too much caffeine can cause your blood pressure to rise, which can be dangerous for those with heart problems.
• Sleep disturbance: Caffeine can disturb your sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased productivity.
• Headaches: Caffeine can cause headaches that might interfere with your concentration.
• Jitteriness and irritability: Some people may feel jittery or irritable around others who aren't drinking caffeinated drinks themselves.

Striking a Balance

To reap the benefits of caffeine without experiencing negative side effects, it's important to strike a balance. Here are a few tips for doing so:

• Limit caffeine consumption: If you're feeling anxious or overwhelmed, it's best to limit your consumption of caffeine on those days.
• Try decaf options: There are many great decaf options available for those who are sensitive to caffeine. Swapping out one of your caffeinated beverages for a decaf option can help you strike a balance, such as Moksha - a caffeine free coffee alternative with 18 superfoods and adaptogens. 
• Be mindful of your daily dose: Pay attention to how much caffeine you're consuming each day, and consider cutting back if you're experiencing negative effects regularly.
• Add Mushroom Tinctures to your coffee, as a way to get even more out of your coffee hits!