Caffeine, like most stimulants, isn't actually bad for you unless you consume too much of it. In fact, caffeine actually has plenty of positive attributes.
By far the most common way for the general population to consume caffeine is through caffeinated refreshments such as coffee and energy drinks.
Consuming caffeine daily has been proven to:
- Reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease. Some studies have indicated that regular coffee drinkers are up to 80% less likely to develop the disease than irregular drinkers.
- Caffeine causes the gallbladder to contract, which helps empty it of cholesterol and other gallstone-forming substances. Hence, it reduces the risk of gallstones.
- Improves both mental and physical performance. It has been proven by numerous studies - I can also vouch for this - that caffeine improves concentration levels. In small amounts it can also increase muscle endurance.
However, consuming too much caffeine can also have plenty of negative affects:
- Daily consumption of caffeine can increase the risk of diabetes, because the drug raises blood-sugar levels and increases the body's insulin resistance.
- Loss of sleep. Again, this is a problem which most caffeine-consumers have experienced. Caffeine increases mental stimulation, which makes it harder to fall asleep.
- Too much caffeine can also cause a whole host of other problems such as: Headaches, irritability, restlessness, insomnia, panic attacks, depression, and stomach problems.
So, caffeine is good and bad for you. Drinking one or two cups of coffee a day should be fine, but try to watch how much caffeine you do consume.
