How Much Coffee is Too Much Coffee?

How Much Coffee is Too Much Coffee?

Most people talk about the stimulating effects of coffee, which is primarily thanks to the presence of caffeine. Caffeine affects the body through the stimulation of the central nervous system (increasing alertness of the individual), through the stimulation of the heart muscle, and through the improvement of cognitive functionality. There have been studies that have shown that in experimental models of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, caffeine would have a neuroprotective effect, while other in vitro studies have demonstrated caffeine's antioxidant activity - which would make it a potential protector against the deleterious effects caused on the cardiovascular system. However, with all things, there must be a limit to how much coffee one can drink. With the increasingly busy lifestyle of the everyday American, this begs the question, “How much coffee is too much coffee?”

While keeping in mind that caffeine is not only present in coffee, but also in other commonly consumed foods (such as tea and chocolate), it is worth noting that the excess of this chemical can pose a health risk.  In contrast to some of the benefits mentioned before, some studies also suggest that regular coffee consumption may be related to the risk of hypertension, but the mechanism is not well established. It is believed that caffeine in the cardiovascular system produces an acute increase in cardiac output and vasoconstriction of the arteries - which could lead to elevated blood pressure. In addition, caffeine would act on the receptors of the hormone adenosine, exerting inhibitory action on this hormone. Through inhibiting it, this acts as a blood pressure reducer. One of the main symptoms of excess caffeine are insomnia and mental agitation. Excess of caffeine can lead to increased diuresis (increased urine volume), nausea, headaches, stomach pains and decreased bone density. According to a www.medicalnewstoday.com article by Jasmin Collier, it was written that for individuals who consumed six or more cups of coffee per day on a constant basis, with a cup being approximately 75 milligrams of caffeine, their likelihood of obtaining a cardiovascular disease increased. In a  www.health.com article by Samantha Lauriello, she mentions that a 2017 review posted in Food and Chemical Toxicology discovered that 400 milligrams of caffeine a day, or about four 8-ounce cups of coffee, is typically okay for an adult. Of course, it is important to keep in mind that everyone is different, and therefore, everyone’s limit is also varied.   

Research shows that moderate consumption of coffee by adults can be beneficial and has been associated with the prevention of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Several studies have shown positive effects of caffeine on reducing glucose tolerance and increasing insulin sensitivity due to increased expression of GLUT-4 (cell glucose uptake). The benefits that caffeine can offer with regard to the beauty of women are many, such as, for example, stimulation of cellular regeneration, blood circulation, rejuvenation and revitalization of the skin. It is worth noting, however, that the ideal way to take advantage of the benefits that caffeine can offer to beauty is to use products prescribed by a dermatologist. 

Now you know that although some studies point to the benefits of coffee (especially due to the presence of caffeine), its consumption should be moderate. Coffee has become an American stable, with coffee shops located around nearly every corner. Individuals who drink coffee seem to be becoming younger in age. Therefore, exercising caution and awareness on how much coffee is too much is important.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/271707.php

https://www.unitypoint.org/livewell/article.aspx?id=e3fb9e25-fc1e-4390-a6a7-6114dd83ea55

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-buzz-about-caffeine-and-health 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325200.php

Superfoods and Brain Health

Superfoods and Brain Health

Tension Headaches

Tension Headaches