Without caffeine, the working world as we know it may cease to exist. For many decades now, if not longer, everyone from the working mom and the head CEO to the full-time student has relied on energy drinks, coffee, soda, and other caffeine-loaded beverages to keep their day going. The need for caffeine to function sometimes is so great that some even take it in pill form! As helpful as caffeine tends to be for making it through the week, it can also have a huge downside.

It is important to know if you’re consuming too much caffeine. As the saying goes, too much of anything isn’t good for you, and caffeine is no exception. Having too much caffeine on a daily basis can be harmful, especially if you are sensitive to the effects of caffeine or take certain medications. To avoid any bad results or experiences, you should take a step back and look at your daily routine. Figure out if you’re too big a fan of caffeine and if you should cut back.

There is such a thing as caffeine sensitivity. This means you may get uncomfortable side effects from consuming even the smallest amount of caffeine. These include restlessness, irritability, and anxiety. Caffeine sensitivity most commonly occurs in those with smaller body mass, which makes the effects of caffeine more potent, and who don’t normally drink caffeine on a regular basis. Additionally, being under a lot of stress can increase the likelihood of caffeine sensitivity. If you fit any of this criteria, you’ll want to limit your caffeine intake and be prepared for any of the side effects mentioned above or avoid it altogether if possible.

According to medical experts, most individuals should not consume more than 500-600 mg a day of caffeine. That’s the equivalent of 4-7 cups of coffee. If that sounds like you, then you are officially consuming an unhealthy amount of caffeine each day and need to cut back immediately. The consequences of too much caffeine can cause muscle tremors, headaches, abnormal heart rhythms, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, sleeplessness, nausea, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal problems.

It’s important to not mix excessive caffeine consumption with certain medication as well. The top meds that should never be combined with routine caffeine intake are: Ephedra, certain antibiotics (Noroxin and Cipro in particular), and Theophylline. Caffeine combined with Ephedra can increase the likelihood of stroke, heart attack and seizure. Combined with certain antibacterial medication and antibiotics, the breakdown of caffeine is effect and can result in prolonging the negative side effects of caffeine. Check with your doctor first about any possible interactions between your prescriptions and caffeine.

To reduce the amount of caffeine in your daily routine, read labels and be aware of how much caffeine you’re actually consuming. If possible, trade in your favorite caffeinated beverages for the decaffeinated version. By taking small steps now, you’ll be able to moderate your caffeine consumption and be worry-free.

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