Monday, June 05, 2006

Caffeine - Another Unhealthy Vice?

Caffeine is often overlooked as a 'vice' only because of it's popularity. Whenever the majority of the population consumes something in such quantities as coffee is (certainly soft drinks can be lumped in there too!), then we all dismiss it as being 'ok'. But the reality is that too much caffeine is counter productive to our health in many ways. How efficiently our brains and/or bodies complete tasks is affected by our caffeine consumption. One very important point to note is that caffeine consumption by teenagers has grown at a very strong rate over the past few years, thanks in part to the plethora of ways a latte is offered. From frappucinos to machiatos, there are enough choices to satisfy even the pickiest of consumers.

Caffeine, however, can be of benefit in small to moderate quantities especially prior to exercise. For an average sized male, consuming just a little - 12 ounces or less (regular, not espresso!) - before exercising, can increase performance. (I guess we could then call it a "performance enhancing drug" and get it banned from professional sports!)

But the bottom line is this: too much of a good thing is no longer a good thing. Development issues arise when teens start consuming too much of..... well, anything except water (or natural juice from fruits and veggies). And the symptoms of withdrawal are plentiful. So if you've got a three Venti Latte habit a day and you decide you're going to cut down, do so slowly so to spare the rest of us with your complaints of headaches, crankiness, tiredness, sluggishness, and irritability. If you want the best stimulant in your life, go with excercise. Only positive side-effects!

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