Caffeine is found naturally in cocoa, coffee and small amounts in tea.  It’s used as an additive in cola beverages and energy drinks.  Although in small quantities it does no harm, when taken in large amounts it can cause sleeplessness, irritability, nervousness, and increase in blood pressure, amongst other conditions.  It’s best to consult a physician if you face any health concerns, but any reduction in caffeine for a self-confessed caffeine addict would be beneficial. Today, we have with us Bangalore-based, Registered Dietitian and Wellness Consultant, Sheela Krishnaswamy who tells us about the top 6 benefits of cutting your caffeine intake.

Benefit #1: Too much caffeine can stimulate the central nervous system and can lead to a faster heart rate, excessive urination, vomiting, restlessness, depression and tremors in some extreme cases.

Benefit #2: Reduction in sleep disturbance. In other words, a person who has caffeine-induced sleep disorder, can sleep better by reducing the amount of caffeine. People, who are addicted to caffeine and tend to consume considerably higher amounts of it. They encounter extreme levels of tiredness from sleep deprivation. 

Benefit #3: Reduction in anxiety levels. A person who takes more than 300 mg of caffeine can have increased anxiety. Although reduction in caffeine helps to bring down anxiety levels, it should be done gradually. Drastic reduction of caffeine can increase anxiety due to sudden withdrawal.

Benefit #4: Hypertensive patients are normally advised to reduce their caffeine intake so that their blood pressure can be better controlled. Especially for people, who have higher levels of blood pressure, switching down on the amounts of caffeine can have a beneficial effect on hypertensive and hypertension patients.

Benefit #5: Alternate therapists advise people to stay away from caffeine if they wish to stay calm.  In other words, reducing or avoiding caffeine can perhaps help in preventing irritability and nervousness.

Benefit #6: Other problems like disorientation, irregular heartbeat, frequent urination, gastric disturbances, etc related to caffeine intoxication can be prevented by reducing caffeine intake.

Please note that, having stated all the adverse affects of consuming too much amount of caffeine, two cups of coffee a day is considered as an acceptable amount.

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