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░ Definition
Probably, the most popular drug in the world: caffeine is an alkaloid naturally found in coffee bean, cacao pod, tea leaf, kola nut and guarana.
We consume caffeine in coffee, tea, cocoa, chocolate, some soft drinks and some drugs. Pure caffeine is odorless and has a bitter taste.
░ Effects of caffeine
Moderate doses:
Increase alertness, reduce motor coordination, can cause nervousness, headaches, dizziness and insomnia.
High doses :
In massive doses, caffeine is lethal. A fatal dose of caffeine has been calculated to be more than 10 grams, what is the same as drinking 90 cups of coffee in a row.
░ Nervous system
Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. This drug enters the bloodstream through the stomach and small intestine, and its effects appear as soon as 15 minutes after it is consumed. Once in the body, caffeine will stay around 4 hours. Caffeine interferes with adenosine (nucleoside of the brain) at multiple sites in the brain; and also acts at other sites in the body to increase heart rate, constrict blood vessels and increase breathing.
░ Important: "Addicts to caffeine"
Some studies show that caffeine causes physical dependence. One way to tell if someone is addict to caffeine is to take their cup of coffee or bottle of coke away from them and see if they have any withdrawal symptoms, as could be: headache, fatigue or muscle pain. These symptoms can occur within 24 hours after the last dose of caffeine.
More information (University of Washington) >>
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