Let us accept, most of us depend on a cup of tea or a cup of coffee to get over morning grogginess or dragging mid-afternoon slump. But there are also individuals who reach out for caffeine pills for same.

What Are Caffeine Pills

Caffeine pills are supplements containing natural caffeine extracted during brewing. But pills may also include artificial or synthetic caffeine.

How Caffeine Pills Work

Caffeine whether taken in beverage form or pill form works the same way by mimicking the compound adenosine that is produced as a byproduct when you are awake. It stimulates the nervous system, and boosts energy boost level. The effect of caffeine pill is at peak after an hour of taking it. Our body takes 5-6 hours to process it  and then you stop feeling the effect of consumed caffeine.

Benefits Of Caffeine Pills

Some studies suggest that caffeine reduces the risk of cancer and certain heart diseases, but it is also considered that this may is due to the antioxidants present in coffee.

Shortly after consumption of caffeine, brain and the central nervous system feels the impact. There is a quick boost in energy. Other benefits of caffeine includes temporary relief in a headache and depression, improved concentration and memory, enhanced ability to stay awake, improved athletic performance, reduced pain and also constipation is reduced. Some studies also show that caffeine suppresses appetite, promotes the resting metabolic rate, increases adrenaline production and breakdown of fat tissue. Thus caffeine  consumption can also make you lose weight.

Are Caffeine Pills Safe

It is difficult to measure the safe and correct dose of 1/6 teaspoon highly concentrated caffeine powder  and so  it is considered potentially dangerous and wasban by the US Food and Drug Administration in April 2018. But unlike highly concentrated caffeine powder, caffeine pills, are safe and legal. They contain pre-measured and packed caffeine in safe dose and consumer do not have to measure it on their own. However even these pills can prove to be harmful in consumed in high doses. So take caffeine pills as directed.

Safe Dosage Of Caffeine Pills

Some caffeine pills impact CNS all at once, and some are time released. One  pill on average contains 100-200 milligrams caffeine which is equal to a cup of brewed coffee. However based on the directions mentioned on the package, one serving may be of one or more pills. In general, up to 400 grams of caffeine consumption per day is considered safe, and so it is essential to stick to an appropriate dose to avoid side effects. Follow the directions mentioned on the package to not exceed the recommended dose. Also, keep in mind that besides coffee and tea there are also other beverages and food that contain caffeine such as energy drinks, hot chocolate, chocolate bar and protein bar. Also, some supplements and medication may contain caffeine. So if you are taking caffeine pills make sure to check the ingredients of other items before consuming and  consult your physician if you are on certain medications.

*Metabolization of caffeine is based on body composition and also on the genetic background so the safe amount may vary from person to person Before starting up with caffeine supplement better discuss the dosage with your doctor.

Side Effects Of Caffeine Overdose

Caffeine, when consumed in moderation, benefits you. Apart from acting as stimulant it also acts as a diuretic. But, overdose  over-stimulates or irritates the system resulting in side effects such as a headache, acid reflux, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, irritability, insomnia and muscle tremors. Excess caffeine consumption may also lead to pregnancy loss and reduces men and women fertility. Also, high caffeine consumption decreases the calcium absorption and weakens the bone.

People with uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, caffeine sensitivity, seizure disorder, bipolar or anxiety disorder, uncontrolled coronary heart disease, gastroesophageal reflux, gastric ulcers, pregnant females, children and adolescents should watch or limit the intake of caffeine.

What Are The Symptoms Of Caffeine Overdose

Toxic or extremely high doses of caffeine may prove fatal. Symptoms of toxic caffeine overdose are vomiting, rapid heartbeat, seizures, stupor and disorientation.

Milder cases are not typically fatal but may lead to nervousness, inability to sit still, high-level thirst, irritability, fever, tremors, headache, diarrhoea, wakefulness and headache.

However, if caffeine pills are taken correctly, it will help you to remain alert, awake, concentrated and boosts energy level. Consume caffeine pills according to the directions on the package. Never overdo.

After reading the article, many of you may have a question in your mind, “why to take caffeine Pills when you can have a cup of coffee?”

There are many reasons why some individuals prefer caffeine pills over the cup of coffee:

• You may not like the taste of sugar-free or fat-free To enhance the taste adding tons of sugar and fat-rich cream to your cup of coffee is not at all healthy idea. Thus, caffeine pills will be a better option to boost energy without adding unwanted calories.
• Caffeine being acidic may irritate your GIT resulting in heartburn and gastro reflux. Caffeine pills, on the other hand, eliminate However, in some people caffeine may increase the reflux symptoms.
• Although both caffeine pills and coffee increases the urine output but if you consume caffeinated beverages, you go to the toilet more frequently. This is why caffeine pills are a better choice for professionals such as train conductors, bus drivers and truck drivers.
• In addition to caffeine, coffee also contains other coffee oils such as kahweol and cafestol that may raise the level of caffeine pills on the other hand are free from coffee oil.

*It is always recommended to check with your doctor before starting caffeine pills to determine if it is a right option to justify your health needs.