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Caffeine: dispelling the myths
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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People often say that they are "addicted" to caffeine. Caffeine is not addictive in the conventional sense. Caffeine is a stimulant and its regular use causes mild dependence.
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Caffeine is addictive
People often say that they are "addicted" to caffeine. Caffeine is not addictive in the conventional sense. Caffeine is a stimulant and its regular use causes mild dependence. Stopping its use can cause fatigue, headaches, irritability and anxiety. However, this does not last more than a day. Caffeine does not provoke antisocial behavior like drugs or alcohol and does not cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, experts do not classify it as a drug.
Caffeine is the cause of cardiovascular diseases
Some people may have increased sensitivity to caffeine, which can cause increased heart rate and blood pressure. However, research conducted by scientists proves that caffeine does not cause cardiac arrhythmia, does not increase cholesterol or the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Caffeine and Cancer
There is scientific evidence that caffeine does not cause cancer. This was proven by two large studies involving 20,000 people, residents of Norway and Hawaii.
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Caffeine is a risk factor for osteoporosis
In large doses - more than 744 mg/day, caffeine can accelerate the loss of magnesium and calcium. However, according to experts, this does not affect bone loss, especially if a person gets enough calcium. You can compensate for the loss of calcium by adding milk to your coffee.
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Pregnant women or those trying to conceive should avoid caffeine.
Studies of the effects of caffeine on conception, birth defects, miscarriages, low fertility, and premature births show that there is no association to support a negative effect from caffeine consumption.
Caffeine negatively affects children's health
Children have the same ability to process caffeine as adults. In moderate amounts, it is not dangerous. However, caffeine-sensitive children should not overuse it. It can lead to restlessness and irritability in the child.
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Caffeine causes insomnia
The human body quickly gets rid of caffeine. It has a short half-life and is excreted mainly through the liver. After 8-10 hours, 75% of caffeine is excreted from the body. Most people can drink coffee at 2 a.m. - it will not prevent them from falling asleep, but if you drink coffee during the day, it will be difficult to fall asleep.