The harms of excessive caffeine consumption

Third week for the “Roar of Harry” – and the fatigue at its peak: Warnings, alarms, running to protected areas and sleep that is interrupted again and again – and the morning comes too quickly. Many wake up tired, busy, and rely on coffee consumption to succeed in functioning. But precisely on days like these, when the body and mind are under constant stress, it becomes clear that excessive caffeine consumption can turn from a temporary solution into a real health problem.

“The security reality and the irregular sleep create a sleep deficit that leads to severe fatigue and a decrease in function,” says Dr. Marev Chen, a general specialist neurologist in the Central District. He explains that caffeine works by blocking the activity of adenosine – a substance that accumulates in the brain and signals us to sleep. In addition, caffeine also encourages the release of dopamine, which provides a momentary sense of vitality.”

The dark side of coffee

According to him, precisely on tense days like these, the risk resulting from overuse increases. “The nervous system is also in a state of over-arousal. The addition of caffeine increases the levels of cortisol and adrenaline, and may lead to accelerated heartbeats, tremors and symptoms that resemble and even worsen anxiety attacks,” he says. In such a situation, what is supposed to help function may actually intensify the feeling of stress.

“Furthermore, caffeine sometimes creates a false sense of alertness,” explains Dr. Chen. “Despite the short-term improvement in reaction time and concentration, the body continues to accumulate fatigue. This means a decrease in discretion, difficulty concentrating over time and an increase in the chance of making mistakes – especially for those who drive or are required to make decisions under pressure.”

According to him, there are populations that need to be especially careful: “Excessive drinking of coffee may increase the chance of multiple seizures among epilepsy patients, so it is recommended for them to limit themselves to two cups a day at the most,” says Dr. Chen. In addition, he emphasizes that caution is also required for adults and children who are taking medications for attention and concentration, since these are stimulant medications – and therefore it is important not to consume coffee close to taking them.

He also specifically warns against energy drinks: “These are high concentrations of caffeine alongside large amounts of sugar and other stimulants. This combination causes a sharp increase in energy followed by a drastic collapse that increases the feeling of fatigue and stress.” According to him, precisely during a period of lack of sleep, it is important to consume caffeine to the extent to allow the body real recovery – and not just postpone the fatigue with another cup of coffee.