Cause and Effect

Brad Bowen

Mrs. Dingler

English 101 50/38 = 88 B

Cause/Effect Essay- FD

The Effects of Caffeine on Health

There is much debate about the health effects of caffeine on the human body and whether it is positive or negative. Caffeine, particularly that found in coffee and energy drinks have been studied closely. The goal was to determine if it is of benefit and whether or not it may have undesirable effects. Caffeine is a big part of modern society and the way we live today. Through extensive research and experimentation, studies have proven both positives and negatives in the use of caffeine.

Caffeine is an xanthine alkaloid that acts as a stimulant. Caffeine is used widely to make one feel alert, feel less sleepy, and will temporarily boost metabolism. One of the effects of caffeine is having a “crash” or letdown a few hours after ingesting. If a person continually drinks coffee throughout the day, it would be less likely to feel a drop in alertness or attentiveness. The individual who drinks coffee or consumes caffeine in the morning, may find himself or herself feeling sluggish as the day continues.

For some individuals the stimulating effects of caffeine can cause jitters, insomnia, and increased irritation. Certain groups of people who suffer from heart problems, anxiety disorders, or addictions will likely not benefit from the effects of caffeine and possibly exacerbate these disorders. Another negative effect of caffeine is that it is mildly addictive. Individuals who consume caffeine on a regular basis are subject to having withdrawals when they stop ingesting it. Withdrawals usually present as a headache, accompanied by extreme sleepiness. These effects of withdrawals may last for several days.

Researchers were then led to study the effects of caffeine on those individuals with chronic headaches or migraines. Research showed that caffeine actually proves beneficial to those suffering from frequent...