Most commonly consumed drinks all over the globe are coffee and tea, which are known to provide alertness, brain-boosting properties and power. The presence of “caffeine” is responsible for imparting these effects along with the flavour. Also, a positive link between caffeine intake and decreased incidence of neurological decline associated with ageing.
Caffeine intake is known to provide health benefits like mood elevation, good for health and heart patients. But, lately, overconsumption of caffeinated drinks like energy drinks, presence in food products like energy bars, etc. have led to a negative effect on health.
What do the studies say? Modern research suggests that caffeine taken in moderate quantities is perfectly fine for your health. However, having caffeine in more than suggestible dosages may lead to heart palpitations, difficulty sleeping and even caffeine crash.
Know the safe limit consumption - Not more than 400 mg of caffeine is advisable. For pregnant females, not more than 300 mg per day is advised.
Synthetic and natural caffeine are nearly indistinguishable in terms of structure.
The FDA regulates added caffeine in 5 products:- Foods, beverages, energy drinks, dietary supplements and over-the-counter drugs.
Know the Real Difference
Natural Caffeine
- It is sourced from plants like coffee beans, cacao, guarana berries, the leaves and buds of tea; and yerba mate.
- Caffeine present in these plants also has a range of vitamins and methylxanthines. They balance the lift and fall of the caffeine in your system and help deliver it steadily.
- It provides a sustainable boost in energy levels and helps focus for a longer period.
- It prevents sudden jitters and products with natural caffeine added to them should be chosen over synthetic caffeine.
Synthetic Caffeine
- It is cheaper, the reason it is more widely found in bottled beverages and food products.
- It is produced from urea and chloroacetic acid.
- Synthetic caffeine is exposed to harsh chemicals during production, such as methylene chloride, ethyl acetate and carbon dioxide.
- It can be absorbed through the digestive system much faster than natural caffeine sources.
To conclude, caffeine intake is safe unless not exceeded more than 400 mg per day and it is always advisable to go for natural caffeine drinks like tea, coffee or even drinks or foods with natural caffeine added to it.