Caffeine: The Pick-Me-Up That Pushes You Down!

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Krista_Braun]Krista Braun
Did You Know?
� The average cup of coffee contains around 135 milligrams of caffeine per cup. Three cups per day means you are consuming more than 500 milligrams of caffeine which is twice the amount considered in a large drug dose.
� Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. Excess caffeine consumption can cause anxiety, nervousness, insomnia or light sleep patterns, stomach and intestinal maladies, and moodiness. Caffeine also stresses the heart leading to heart disease.
� Coffee belongs to the same alkaloid group of chemicals as morphine, cocaine and strychnine.
� "I'll have a Double Toxic Latte Please": The roasting process that brings out the coffee bean aroma converts the oils in coffee into dangerous trans fats which have many detrimental effects on our health. Growers use more pesticides on coffee crops than on any other crops and decaffeinated coffee contains a high concentration of trichloroethylene, a potent liver carcinogen. Nitrosamines naturally occurring in coffee are the same carcinogens found in bacon and other cured meats.
Other Reasons to Limit Caffeine Consumption
� Depletion of vitamins and minerals, mostly vitamin B1 and magnesium. Vitamin B1 is responsible for energy metabolism, protein synthesis and plays a major role in the nervous system. Symptoms of deficiency include fatigue, nervousness, general malaise, general aches and pains, and headaches.
� Caffeine taxes the adrenal glands. Your adrenal glands react to stress and release a hormone called cortisol. Excessive cortisol can cause certain "stress diseases" including decreased immunity, high blood pressure, and possibly stomach ulcers. Not to mention, taxed adrenal glands means hormonal dysregulation and fatigue.
� The sympathetic response that occurs with coffee consumption suppresses optimal digestive system functioning. Instead of resting and digesting, blood is being sent preferentially to muscles, the lungs, and the heart. Any food left in digestive system will then begin to ferment, putrefy and perhaps even turn rancid. When this happens, nutrients and minerals will not be properly absorbed and may lead to deficiencies.
� Interference with blood sugar metabolism by sending blood sugar levels up. The pancreas are forced into action, releasing insulin into system to normalize blood sugar levels. This can cause a huge energy crash later.
� Coffee is highly acidic, resulting in a decrease in healthy bacteria in the intestines leading to many associated health problems: acne, constipation, diarrhea, recurring colds and flu, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia.
Coffee Alternatives
� Green tea - rich in bioflavonoids with powerful antioxidant properties.
� Herbal tea including Roobios, Yerbe Matte - caffeine-free and available in a wide variety that boost energy through antioxidants and non-caffeine mechanisms.
� Grain-and-root coffee substitutes found at health food stores.
As a Treat
� Organic dark chocolate - contains cocoa phenols, which act as an antioxidant and may lower blood pressure.
� A cup of coffee as a treat - use organic beans and grind them fresh to use.
Dr. Krista Braun, ND is a licensed naturopathic physician practicing at the Inlet Wellness Gallery in Port Moody, B.C. She is licensed in acupuncture and bowen therapy. Dr. Braun's passion in the mind/body connection and background in science and research focuses her practice on whole body healing using gentle and evidence-based treatment. Please visit http://www.drkristabraun.com for more information.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Caffeine:-The-Pick-Me-Up-That-Pushes-You-Down!&id=6642555] Caffeine: The Pick-Me-Up That Pushes You Down!