Are you Overdosing on Caffeine?

For most, the thought of ingesting caffeine is a no brainer. It wakes you up, provides a jolt of energy when needed, and more often than not, acts as part of your daily routine. Coffee, tea, sodas – these are all beverages most consume as a rule rather than an exception. But considering all it can do – how awake we can get from a single beverage – it should come as no surprise that there are dangers when drinking too much of it. When overdosing the body on caffeine, all types of side effects can take place, including headaches, a feeling of dizziness, aches, chest pains, and more. Even fainting and feeling nauseated. 

Caffeine is a strong substance, and without enough time to let it metabolize, the body goes into overdrive mode, attempting to ward it off, or letting it affect you in ways other than just being ultra alert. On the flip side of the spectrum, those who are used to having caffeine every day can actually experience withdrawal symptoms, most notably, headaches. Once the body becomes accustomed to it, it learns to function alongside it. 

How Much is Too Much

There are several factors that play into how much becomes "too much" caffeine for each individual. Most notably, body size and genetics. Smaller adults (and especially kids) will be more greatly affected by small doses of caffeine. While caffeine allergies or reactions can also be passed down from parents. If you're not sure how caffeine affects you, talk to your doctor, parents, or simply keep track of how many beverages you've had, and take note as to how the body responds. 

Even those with the highest of tolerances can feel serious side effects when ingesting large amounts of caffeine. 

Talk to your doctor about caffeine intakes, or consider cutting back if you're experiencing ongoing side effects. 

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Why It’s Important to Stay Hydrated

Did you know that a large majority of medical ailments can be cured just by drinking a glass of water? While it might sound far-fetched (or too good to be true), more often than not, people experiencing minor aches and pains are simply dehydrated. And if they’d stop to replenish their body’s water source, they could instantly get rid of that headache, reduce those muscle aches, or help dissolve that heartburn. Underlying issues can also be helped by drinking water, such as slowed digestion or inefficient circulation.

But if drinking water is so easy, why don’t more people do it? Though it sounds like a simple cure, it can be hard to tell what can and can’t be solved by drinking water … until you actually do it. Which is why, whenever a minor pain occurs, it’s best to drink a glass of water (or two) just to be sure. Experts also say you should take in a regular amount of water on any given day. (Talk to your doctor about age and weight to find a safe amount.) That way your body is hydrated at all times; you can work to eliminate impromptu headaches before they even take place. 

For those who don’t like drinking water, this can be done by adding in flavors, but remember that those that contain caffeine or sugars should be avoided. 

Is Being Dehydrated Really That Bad?

Depends on your definition. But being too low on water levels can reduce your body’s ability to perform a number of functions, including organ tasks, blood flow, food digestion, skin development, and more. A lack of water can also leave your body searching for the water it requires, leaving you with a nasty headache or other bodily pain. 

To make the most out of your health, drinking water can be a simple cure to any number of issues. Start drinking more water today to receive instant wellness results.

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