Guest Author - Sharon Bejin

Caffeine found in coffee, tea, soda, and chocolates has an effect on the body. The effects on women can contribute to osteoporosis, sleep deprivation or heart disease.

Major body organs are affected by caffeine. High levels of caffeine in the body increase heart rate, blood flow, respiratory rate, and metabolic rate for several hours. Once the stimulant is absorbed into the bloodstream it stimulates the nervous and cardiovascular systems.

The nervous system is affected by caffeine. Overconsumption of caffeine keeps the body in a constant state of alertness due to the adrenaline rush the body receives. Constant stimulation can be taxing on the adrenaline glands. When taken before bedtime, caffeine can interfere with falling asleep. It can also cause you to wake in the middle of the night. Caffeine does not help those women who are already having trouble sleeping. This stimulant gives the body a boost of energy which does nothing for a person who needs their sleep.

Some studies have shown that high levels of caffeine contribute to heart problems, although some may question this. It is known that the heart is stimulated by caffeine and causes pulse rates to increase. For women who have heart disease, this may put further stress on the heart. Cutting down on caffeine may contribute to a healthier heart and body.

High levels of caffeine also deplete calcium in the body. Calcium is needed to build strong bones and prevent osteoporosis. About 8 million women in the United States have osteoporosis. Moderation of caffeine can lessen the rate of calcium loss. To help build stronger bones, women need between 1,000 and 1,200 milligrams of calcium daily.

Caffeine has a negative effect when taken with certain medicines. Some antibiotics can slow the breakdown of caffeine in the body. When this happens caffeine stays in your system and keeps the body stimulated for longer periods of time.

Too much caffeine can cause hormone levels to fluctuate. This can lead to fibrocystic breasts. Women who have these cysts complain of pain and tenderness. Reducing caffeine will cause the pain to subside.

Before consuming your daily intake of caffeine, be mindful of the stimulant levels in each product. Regular soda has anywhere from 30-100 milligrams of caffeine in a 12-ounce can, espressos have about 60 milligrams per ounce, regular brewed coffee contains 115-175 milligrams per cup, and milk chocolate has the least with 6 milligrams of caffeine for one ounce.

Every day we are surrounded by caffeine. Cutting it from your daily diet can be difficult at first; in fact it may not be easy, although it can make a big difference in whether or not you have bone loss, heart issues, or sleepless nights. The familiar saying, “You are what you eat and drink” appears to be accurate.