Caffeine is a psychoactive substance found in various drinks and foods such as coffee, tea, chocolate and energy drinks. It is one of the most commonly consumed stimulants worldwide. In this fact check, we examine common assumptions about the effects of caffeine on the human body.

Caffeine increases alertness and attention

CORRECT. Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, resulting in increased release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This increased activity can lead to increased alertness, attention and cognitive performance.

Caffeine always leads to dehydration

INCORRECT. Although caffeine can have a diuretic effect, causing increased urination, most people offset this effect by increasing fluid intake. Moderate caffeine consumption does not usually cause dehydration.

Caffeine can cause withdrawal symptoms

CORRECT. If consumed regularly, caffeine can lead to addiction. When stopping or reducing caffeine intake, withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, irritability and depressed mood may occur.

Caffeine has no effect on bone health

INCORRECT. High caffeine consumption can interfere with the body's absorption of calcium, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. However, adequate calcium intake and moderate caffeine consumption are important to maintain bone health.

Caffeine can affect sleep quality

CORRECT. Caffeine can increase the time it takes to fall asleep and affect sleep quality, especially when consumed in the hours before bedtime. Caffeine's half-life is about 5 to 6 hours, meaning it stays in the body for a long time and can disrupt sleep.

Conclusion: Caffeine has both positive and negative effects on the human body. Moderate caffeine consumption can increase alertness and attention, while excessive consumption can lead to health problems such as sleep disorders, withdrawal symptoms, and impaired bone health. It is important to keep individual caffeine consumption and personal needs in mind to achieve the greatest health benefits.

  1. Alertness and attention:
  1. Dehydration:
  1. Withdrawal symptoms:
  • Juliano, L.M., & Griffiths, R.R. (2004). A critical review of caffeine withdrawal: empirical validation of symptoms and signs, incidence, severity, and associated features. Psychopharmacology, 176(1), 1-29. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-004-2000-x
  1. Bone health:
  1. Sleep quality:
  • Drake, C., Roehrs, T., Shambroom, J., & Roth, T. (2013). Caffeine effects on sleep taken 0, 3, or 6 hours before going to bed. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 9(11), 1195-1200. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.3170

These scientific publications provide insight into the various aspects of caffeine's effects on the human body.

Also read: Sugar: Why it can be harmful to our health – A fact check


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