Is caffeine consumption messing up your sleep? Know the link between sleep problems and coffee

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KEY STORY

  • Caffeine is one of the most commonly consumed stimulants in the world. It is often consumed in the form of tea, coffee, energy drinks, cocoa, and soft drinks. Most people consume it to avoid falling asleep as it makes the brain more alert and energized, thereby helping it stay away and feel less tired.
  • The safe amount of per day caffeine consumption by people recommended by the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) is 400 milligrams. After consumption, caffeine can stay in the body for hours. But is this effect healthy for your body? Here is what you need to know about it.
    Sleep and caffeine
  • To understand the adverse effects of caffeine on sleep, let us understand how caffeine and sleep work. The central nervous system (CNS) contains a neuromodulator known as adenosine receptors (or P1 receptors). This is responsible for inducing a feeling of sleepiness. Caffeine acts upon it and blocks adenosine. This causes the body to stay awake.

     

  • Excess of anything, no matter how healthy it may be, can be harmful to the body. Caffeine, if consumed unmoderated, can lead to short-term, as well as long-term, health issues.
  • Overuse of caffeine can lead to the development of sleep problems such as insomnia. People may experience anxiety, inability to sleep, and disability to get REM sleep. Excess consumption of caffeine can also cause caffeine dependence. This could be evident in headaches, anxiety, and restlessness during the day due to the unavailability of caffeine.

    Bottom line

     

  • In the everyday hectic schedule, it may be difficult for people to get sufficient sleep. However, getting at least 6-8 hours of sleep is a healthy amount and one must strive to achieve the same.
  • One can try methods such as mediation, improving the environment, and regulation of a healthy lifestyle in order to improve the quality of sleep. Caffeine consumption must be moderated and one must ensure to keep the body hydrated.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.

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