Published: March 25, 2009 04:04 pm      

Caffeine does a body good

According to the Mayo Clinic, moderate doses of caffeine (between 200 to 300 milligrams, or roughly 2 to 3 cups of brewed coffee per day) are not harmful to most people. While some people might respond negatively to caffeine, studies have shown that there is no link between caffeine and higher cholesterol, irregular heartbeat or an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, when caffeine typically proves problematic is when moderate intake becomes heavy intake. When daily caffeine intake reaches or exceeds 500 to 600 milligrams per day, problems such as restlessness, muscle tremors, headaches, and difficulty falling asleep can arise. However, as the Mayo Clinic notes, much of a person’s reaction to caffeine depends on that person’s individual sensitivity. Sensitivity to caffeine can be influenced by body mass, psychological or physical stress and a person’s history of caffeine use. Age, smoking habits and drug use can also influence an individual’s reaction to caffeine.