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Wellness Words Detail Page
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Word: Caffeine
Short Definition:
Naturally occurring stimulant
Definition:
Caffeine is an alkaloid (nitrogen based compounds produced by certain plants) found in the beans, leaves, and fruit of over 60 plants, the most well known being coffee beans and tea leaves.
Caffeine acts as a stimulant and a diuretic. It stimulates the central nervous system and can boost the heart rate and alertness and, in elevated quantities, may lead to restlessness or insomnia.
Caffeine is eliminated from the body through the liver and has a half-life of about four to five hours After eight to 10 hours, 75% of the caffeine is gone. Therefore for most people, a cup of coffee or two in the morning won't interfere with sleep at night.
Caffeine also acts as a cardiovascular stimulant and raises blood pressure. People diagnosed with high blood pressure should limit their intake of caffeine.
Caffeine is mildly addicting, in that most people find that once they become a user, they cannot function at as high an energy level without it. When dropping caffeine "cold turkey", they may experience headaches for up to 2-3 days. There are no legal limits to caffeine use in drinks.
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