Caffeine, one of the most popular energy supplements, is also one of the most commonly used drugs today. Just as with most things, too much of anything isn’t good for you, but there are pros and cons to caffeine. You have to weigh all the options to see if cutting back on your caffeine intake will be a good move for you.Â

While caffeine may help you get a jump start during the day or help you stay up late when you need to, too much can make you nervous and shaky. It can also cause your heart to race and even affect your breathing. If you find yourself a bit jittery or shaky, caffeine may be the culprit. Plus, caffeine can make you feel more stressed during the day, even if you haven’t had too much.

Your afternoon caffeine boost may be to blame for your insomnia. A lot of people think caffeine won’t keep you up if you don’t drink it before bedtime, but the stimulating effects of caffeine can last up to six hours. If you cut back your afternoon caffeine consumption, you may find yourself more rested in the morning.

Along with the side effects of caffeine, studies have suggested that there are more serious consequences from excessive use. Its stimulant properties can have negative effects on the heart including high blood pressure. Its diuretic effects may cause calcium loss, leading to osteoporosis and possibly even low blood pressure in some people. In addition, it’s been suggested that caffeine can raise cholesterol, cause stomach irritation, and may even be linked to certain cancers. While most of this research is inconclusive and linked to high consumptions of caffeine, it’s something to think about.

Caffeine in excess (more than a cup of coffee or two) has not only been linked to low birth weight, and miscarriages; some also suspect that it could prevent conception. If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, you should seriously consider giving up caffeine.

There are also a few pros to caffeine, in moderation. Many migraine sufferers have found relief from their headaches after having some coffee or a cola, often in conjunction with their medication. Some research has even shown that caffeine may decrease a person’s chances of developing Parkinson’s or diabetes. Some have also found that having some caffeine about an hour before exercising may even help reduce muscle pain after the workout.

Do the research and consult your doctor to see if the risks outweigh the benefits for you in regard to your caffeine intake. You will go through some withdrawal symptoms, such as headache and nausea, if you decide to cut out caffeine from your daily routine.Â

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