Although it may be hard to resist that burst of energy the night before finals, withdrawal symptoms from caffeine can do more harm than good during exams. Headaches, extreme tiredness and lack of ability to concentrate are just a few of the harmful effects from caffeine withdrawal.
“About two to three large cups of coffee can lead to increased unpleasant sensory sensations,” said Heidi Burkey, a health education assistant at the Health Resource Center. “Large doses can cause insomnia, restlessness, excitement, muscle tremors, dehydration and increase blood pressure.”
Jessica Macias, a senior communications major, knows what it is like to rely on a Red Bull every day. “It’s hard balancing the demands of a full-time job and four classes,” she said. “I drink a Red Bull in the afternoon to keep me going, and I spend about 20 dollars a week on energy drinks alone.”
Energy drinks have larger amounts of caffeine in them, along with a variety of other substances of which whose final effects are not fully known. If an adult is healthy, 200 to 300 milligrams (equal about two to three cups) of caffeine per day should not cause any severe consequences.
“The most popular energy drinks on campus right now are Rockstar, Full Throttle and Tab,” said Patrick Joyce, convenience store manager and buyer for the 49er Shops. “Students are drinking these drinks because students just need that extra bit of energy, and companies are starting to improve the taste of these beverages.”
According to Ralph David, author of the Journal of the Health Resource Center, there are substances that can have interactions with caffeine as well. Products such as oral contraceptives, laxatives and diuretics can increase the amount of time that caffeine is present in the body, which raises the possibility of having harmful side effects.
“If you have health problems, then not drinking caffeine would be recommended,” Burkey said. “Exercise is a much better, healthier alternative.”
Research has indicated that there are physical dangers resulting from the misuse of over-the-counter stimulants, including changes in the cardiovascular and central nervous systems, David said. When using these stimulants, all provided directions should be followed and the body’s need for rest should be respected.
