Caffeine overdose is a reality and we need to accept it. Energy drinks, like coffee and even tea (Indians love their chai), are popular beverages that help to lessen sleepiness, increase energy and maintain alertness. Energy drinks are generally used for temporary relief of distress or the positive effects on attention and performance. These behaviours are also routine for young students to improve performance in studies and sports and professionals to enhance their work-related performance.
These drinks contain chemicals like caffeine, taurine, and vitamins hence can be called caffeinated beverages. These are popular among teenagers and young adults. However, these drinks in addition to caffeine may contain several stimulants and simple sugars, which increase their caloric content.
Since the caffeine concentration in these drinks is high, their overconsumption can have detrimental effects on one’s health. It affects the quality and duration of sleep if consumed in excess. People who habitually consume large amounts of coffee may develop a dependency on it. Serious problems have been reported when caffeine-containing products are consumed in more copious amounts. Mainly children, adolescents, and young adults can develop anxiety, fits, agitation, migraines, sleeplessness, dehydration, gastrointestinal problems or abnormal heartbeat. Importantly, it has been recently demonstrated that energy drinks also induce an ill effect on the functioning of the heart and reduce blood flow to the brain under mental stress. Moreover, caffeine has also been shown to cause damage to the muscle and kidneys.
The outcomes after caffeine toxicity are excellent. Mortality is very rare for patients who seek treatment. Those who do not seek treatment or the treatment is delayed may develop seizures, arrhythmias, or even aspirate vomitus.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Also, over-consumption of caffeine by pregnant mothers could have harmful effects on the healthy development of the unborn child.
Also, the effect of caffeine overdose produces is specific to an individual. Hence, the effects may be different in different individuals for the same amount of caffeine.
Symptoms of caffeine withdrawal begin 12 to 24 hours after the last caffeine intake and can last two to nine days, and may include a headache, fatigue, decreased energy/activeness, decreased alertness, and drowsiness. Tapering consumption is often found to be helpful.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Considering the ill-effects of excessive use, energy drinks and caffeine-containing beverages should be limited to occasional consumption. These should be avoided before or during sports practice. People with specific heart-related ailments should seek medical advice before consuming such drinks. Parents should restrict the consumption or abuse of energy drinks by their children. Consumption of coffee in a limited quantity is acceptable in otherwise healthy people. The amount one can consume without any ill-effects or experiencing caffeine overdose vary since its effect is individualistic.
Also Read: Decoding Caffeine: How Much is Too Much?
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
In the management of diabetes, weight loss plays a critical role and therefore it’s necessary to decode questions associated with it. This article will not only help you clear off doubts associated with body weight in type 2 diabetes management, but also suggest simple and easy ways to manage your weight.
Question 1: Is there a connection between body weight and type 2 diabetes?
Answer 1: Yes, though not always excess body weight is an important risk for developing type 2 diabetes or high blood sugar. More than 80% (approximately) of the people with diabetes are above their ideal weight.
Question 2: How does excess weight affect normal blood glucose control?
Answer 2: Excess weight can lead to improper control of blood sugar because:
Question 3: Has it been shown that weight loss improves diabetes control and reduces the risk of complications?
Answer 3: Yes, there is plenty of data from diabetic patients validating that the reduction of fat can help control diabetes and reduce the risk of its complications.
Weight loss, therefore, is important for the management of diabetes and reducing the risk of its complications. Some suggestive changes in your daily routine, which can help in reducing fat, are listed below.
Also Read: Best Fruits for Weight Loss: A Comprehensive Guide
Simple but effective ways to reduce excessive fat:
Diabetes is a lifestyle disease but it is shrouded in myths. Debunk Diabetic Myths here. The best way to approach Diabetes is to follow the doctor’s advice thoroughly. Here is why. If you are planning a vacation or need to travel, try this checklist!
Also Read: Opting For Healthy Noodles: A Comprehensive Guide
Read More: 8 Effective Exercises for Weight Loss
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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