If brewing yourself a warm cup of tea or coffee is among your first tasks of the day, you are not alone. Three in four people who consume caffeine in the country report having a caffeinated beverage at least once daily. In limited quantities, caffeine has several health benefits, including increased alertness, reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, and enhanced mood. However, in excess, this cuppa that cheers can have several detrimental side effects:

Insomnia
Insomnia is one of the most common side effects of excessive caffeine. A study found that caffeine six hours before bedtime reduced sleep time by one hour. It is best to avoid caffeinated beverages after sunset and generally limit caffeine intake even during the day to enhance the quality of sleep. Moreover, although caffeine typically stays in one’s system for five hours, it may remain in one’s body for anywhere between one to nine hours, depending on the person. Hence, one must observe one’s caffeine intake and consequent effects on sleep patterns and control their intake accordingly.

Headache
Frequent caffeine intake can trigger throbbing pain on the sides of one’s head. Such headaches are commonly called “caffeine headaches” and are particularly prevalent among individuals already prone to migraine. Caffeine headaches are typically caused by their effects on the brain’s electrical activity.

Frequent urination
Caffeine intake has been associated with an overly active bladder and even incontinence. Research has found that caffeine can increase the frequency and urgency of urination. Thus, individuals prone to urinary tract infections and incontinence should limit or avoid caffeinated beverages.

Increased palpitation
Excessive caffeine can increase one’s heartbeat, resulting in atrial fibrillation. Although this side effect does not occur among all caffeine drinkers, caffeine can increase one’s risk for the condition.

Fatigue
Although caffeinated beverages initially increase one’s alertness and act as mood boosters, they can have contrary effects once the body completely metabolizes caffeine. Fatigue and tiredness are common side effects of caffeinated drinks.

Blood sugar
Some individuals with type 2 diabetes report that their blood-sugar levels increase after caffeine consumption. Although caffeine may increase glucose levels marginally, it can still contribute to insulin resistance among patients grappling with the condition.

Digestive problems
Coffee has been associated with the release of gastrin, a hormone that accelerates colon activity. Moreover, such activity has been observed even after the consumption of decaffeinated coffee. Sometimes, coffee may improve the frequency of bowel movements among those suffering from constipation, but it can lead to diarrhea and gastrointestinal problems in other cases.

Caffeine addiction
Finally, caffeine can trigger the release of certain chemicals in the brain, paving the way for psychological and physical dependency on caffeinated beverages. Excessive consumption of caffeine over time can cause severe addiction to the element.