Caffeine: The balance between asset and addiction
Whether it’s in the form of tea, coffee, energy drinks or other sources, most people would probably agree, they can’t function without their daily caffeine.
As a college student, I can confirm this, as I noticed my coffee addiction spike dramatically after just a few months at USD. It’s obviously a normal occurrence to see these kinds of increases, but it’s important to be aware of the benefits of treating coffee and other similar drinks as a boost rather than developing an unhealthy dependency on caffeinated beverages.
The right amount of caffeine will ultimately improve mental functioning, decrease fatigue and improve short-term memory. These perks are essentially the holy grail for students cram-studying for an upcoming exam or finishing a tedious term paper.
In terms of physical uses, caffeine can provide aid burning fat during the post-workout recovery phase. It seems like the perfect thing to include in anyone’s everyday routine, so the negative effects concerned with consuming too much of it seem minor in comparison.
Because it’s a nervous system stimulant, caffeine can increase anxiety levels, cause issues with insomnia, trigger digestive problems and increase blood pressure in the long run. A reliance on coffee has also been proven to be a primary culprit when one is dealing with chronic or abnormal fatigue levels.
Speaking from a personal point of view, I’ve found myself to be less attentive to my school work and more exhausted in general when I’ve drank more than just my morning cup of coffee.
It’s become more of a necessity for the majority of adults, and when it evolves from an energy boost to a requirement for daily function, individuals are more prone to mood swings and heightened irritability when they aren’t provided with the amount of caffeine their body has adjusted to.
Obviously, there is little harm with daily cappuccinos, an energy drink for a long drive or a tea to help get through the study session, but it’s important to pay attention to what the body needs more than what it wants.
It’s easy to forget bodily health contributes just as much as mental health when it comes to overall motivation and the ability to work and learn efficiently. Caffeine consumed in moderation can be extremely helpful and beneficial, so the goal is to keep it an asset rather than an addiction in everyday life.
