Caffeine
Everyone has come across caffeine,
whether they have through a drink or food. It is “the most popular
stimulant in the world and the worlds most popular mood-altering and
habit-forming drug” (Inaba
& Cohen, 2011, p 3.35). Caffeine is found in items like soda,
tea, chocolate, coffee, and energy drinks. This particular stimulant
was one of the many mentioned in this weeks reading for my COH 318
course. I wanted to discuss caffeine in a blog post to get others
point of view on the subject. What do you think, is caffeine a
serious addictive stimulant like other drugs? Is self control with
something such as this stimulant the key to preventing dependence?
I
think it can be, there are some situations where an individual will
become dependent on it and can not function without it. In these
cases people have used it consistently and are use to having a daily
dose of it. Becoming more informed on this subject will help others
have a better understanding of the drug. To much caffeine can be
dangerous for some, as it is noted in a article on about.com it
causes signs like jitteriness, irritability, headaches, and
dizziness. Although, on the other side having small doses of the
stimulant can actually be fine for an individual. “In low doses,
caffeine can increase alertness, dissipate drowsiness or fatigue, and
facilitate thinking” (Inaba & Cohen, 2011, p 3.39). Knowing
what is to much and what amount is fine can lead to a better sense of
self control with the intake of this stimulant.
References
of Psychoactive Drugs (7th ed.). Oregon: CNS Productions, Inc.
Goodwin, L. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://coffeetea.about.com
/od/caffeinehealth/a/Excess-Caffeine-Symptoms.htm
Images from Microsoft Clipart
Your topic of caffeine is a very relevant topic for me! I am that person that has to have a cup of coffee every morning or else I will get a headache. I do think that caffeine is clearly an addictive stimulant, but I don't think it is that serious (although I am just speaking for my point of view.) I used to drink two caffeinated beverages per day, but recently I thought that was too much so I cut out my afternoon beverage and only drink my morning coffee. For me, I did have a headache on and off for a couple days, but it was a low grade headache, and I was able to function around it. It was more of a nuisance than anything. My point being, after those couple days I successfully cut out my second caffeinated beverage. People on more serious drugs aren't capable of so easily stopping their drugs. It's a shame caffeine is in the best stuff: coffee, tea, and chocolate!
ReplyDeleteI know tea and chocolate is my weakness! That is very true, it is much harder for people who have a more serious addiction to just stop. It can be a struggle for these individuals, it's a process. Thanks Erin for commenting!
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