Caffeine Delight or Doozy?

Written by: Kanya Shah
Coffee---a drink that has grown to be extremely popular in the US. From macchiatos to espressos, several types of coffee have emerged, especially in franchises such as Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts. Caffeine is a natural drug that is present in energy drinks and coffee with effects that are often debated. 
What does caffeine do to your body? Since caffeine primarily targets the cardiovascular and nervous systems, it may prompt an adrenaline rush, prompt short bursts of energy, and speed up chemical reactions within you. 
While coffee may be an enjoyable beverage, there are multiple controversies about the effects of caffeine on your health. Unlike alcohol which is a depressant, caffeine is a stimulant drug that affects your brain and heart. After consistent consumption, it is possible to become addicted to caffeine and becoming prone to restlessness. Drinking coffee results in water storage depletion causing dehydration. 
However, some studies have shown that caffeine boosts short term memory, improve reaction time, and increase your mental functionality. The benefits of coffee are protection from cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, etc. It gives temporary relief from headaches and battles cancer long term. 
It is important to keep in mind that excessive quantities of caffeine, especially those exceeding the clinical standards of four cups maximum, can prove to be fatal. Physical effects of too much caffeine are sweating and dizziness along with mental disorientation which ultimately adds up to a cardiac arrest. 
Being aware of the effects of consuming too much caffeine will help you prevent health misfortunes. As long as you’re staying in control of what you drink, treat yourself to a cup of coffee and enjoy it!