The Effects of Caffeine on the Nervous System
Caffeine is a chemical mixture found in beans, plants and fruits. It is commonly consumed in coffees, teas, sodas and energizing drinks. It is the most legal and unregulated psychoactive stimulant drug consumed, particularly due to its effects on the central nervous system (CNS).
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History
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Caffeine has been consumed in various forms like cocoa in the Mayan civilization; teas in 3,000 B.C. in China and coffee in the ninth century by Ethiopians. However, it was not until 1819 when German chemist, Friedrich Ferdinand Runge first isolated the chemical, caffeine.
Identification
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It stimulates the CNS at a high, intense level that results in increased alertness, focus, concentration and body coordination.
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Function
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When adenosine (natural molecules found in CNS) bind together, they result in fatigue and drowsiness in the body. Caffeine blocks the adenosine receptors and constricts blood flow.
Warning
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Continual presence of caffeine increases the amount of adenosines receptors which results in tolerance adaptation and increases sensitivity when caffeine is no longer present. A 1998 study published in the Institute of Food Research in Reading Laboratory, U.K., concluded caffeine addicts continue to consume caffeine to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Considerations
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Consuming more than 200 mg does not increase alertness but raises nervousness, irritability, migraines, headaches and tremors.
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