Caffeine: Living Without a Kick Hard for Students
By STACIE DOPKO | Oct. 24, 2001Often noted as a phase when healthy practices are tossed by the wayside, college students everywhere find themselves relying on caffeine to focus throughout the day and to stay awake during the crucial crunch times, when study seems more crucial than sleep."I am always tired and don't feel like moving [without caffeine]. No motivation whatsoever," said Mary Troicke, a senior majoring in dance who once attempted to give up her daily coffee and Diet Coke routine."I didn't feel motivated to do anything, didn't go to class."Although caffeine may appear to be one of the more harmless indulgences in comparison with alcohol or illegal drugs, excessive use can be very dangerous to one's well being.According to the WebMD Web site, caffeine absorbs very quickly into the gastrointestinal tract after ingestion and directly impacts the dopamine levels of the brain, stimulating either pleasant feelings or a sour demeanor.Two or three beverages a day poses no significant health risk, but excessive consumption can raise blood pressure throughout the day, causing or aggravating such things as peptic ulcers and coronary heart disease.
