In the United States, over 80 percent of adults consume caffeine in some form. Coffee, tea, soda and chocolate are the most common sources. Each day, the average adult ingests approximately 280 milligrams of caffeine, the amount found in about two large cups of coffee.
At this level of consumption, caffeine tends to have a positive effect. People who take in small amounts of caffeine say they feel more awake and alert. In higher doses, however, caffeine can produce negative effects, such as anxiety and nervousness. But according to the researchers, these negative effects are not a serious health threat. In fact, when compared to other addictive substances, such as alcohol or nicotine, caffeine is relatively benign.
Dr. Griffiths points out that there is a distinction between physical dependence on a substance and actual addiction. While millions of Americans say they are addicted to caffeine, Dr. Griffiths says most of them are only physically dependent on the substance. In other words, they will suffer withdrawal symptoms, such as lethargy and headaches if they stop using it.
Actual addiction is a much more serious condition. In order to be considered a true addict, a person must meet four criteria. These criteria are: 1) gradual development of a tolerance to the effects of the substance (i.e. more and more of the substance must be consumed to produce the same effect.) 2) withdrawal symptoms when the substance is no longer consumed. 3) persistent use of the substance even if it causes or aggravates medical problems. 4) repeated failed attempts to stop using the substance.
According to Dr. Griffiths, most coffee or soda drinkers can give up caffeine if they try. Therefore, they are not full-fledged caffeine addicts. However, these people will probably experience unpleasant physical effects when they stop using caffeine. Therefore, the drug should be used with caution.
And for those who want to kick their caffeine habit? Dr. Griffiths suggests that you do not quit cold turkey. Instead, he says, gradually decrease your caffeine use, tapering off a little more each day.
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