User:Melissahoward/Caffeine and Health

Chemistry Properties
Caffeine is a methylxanthine and methylxanthines are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. This is due to the similarity in molecular structure to the nucleotide adenosine. With the initial absorption of caffeine occuring within 15 minutes the peak time of caffeine absorption is estimated at 45 minutes. Although varying in many studies the half-life of caffeine has been found to be around 5.2-6.8 hours for adults.

Overview of the Issue

 * Pros
 * High long term consumption is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
 * Research is beginning to suggest that caffeine minimizes the cognitive decline associated with ageing.
 * Release of neurotransmitters such as noradrenaline, acetylcholine, and dopamine.
 * Acetylcholine is associated with attention, concentration, learning, and memory but there is no conclusive evidence yet that caffeine has any effect on memory and cognitive function.
 * Low doses of caffeine show increased alertness and decreased fatigue.
 * Reduced risk of developing cancer and a delay in the average onset of cancer.
 * Reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease.
 * Lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
 * (In these studies the greatest benefits were observed in those who drank coffee for a long period in their lifetime)
 * Cons
 * Increased vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure.
 * High blood pressure is associated with an increase in strokes, and cerebral vascular disease, which in turn increase the risk of vascular dementia.
 * Decreased control of fine motor movements (shaky hands)
 * Increased urination.
 * High doses of caffeine can cause anxiety.
 * Increased insomnia and sleep latency.
 * Caffeine withdrawal produces headache, fatigue and decreased alterness.
 * Addictive ( though controversial)

Short Term Effects

 * keep awake / energetic
 * increase heart rate
 * loss appetite → diet
 * increase urination
 * makes you happy

Long Term Effects
Research has shown links between heavy caffeine consumption and osteoperosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, heart burn, ulcers, severe insomnia and infertility.