Caffeine can be harmful
True, but for most people caffeine is safe. It is unlikely that caffeine in coffee, cola soft drinks
or tea poses a serious health hazard for the majority of people who consume these beverages in
moderation. A number of studies have associated caffeine consumption with a variety of
conditions including peptic ulcers, heartburn, heart disease, cancer, fibrocystic breast disease,
birth defects and central nervous system disorders. Many of these studies were flawed,
inconclusive, or contradicted by later studies, so that concern about caffeine has lessened. It may
be that other substances in these caffeine-containing beverages should be more closely
investigated. Nevertheless, caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant and while some people
can consume substantial amounts without apparent ill-effects, others can be more sensitive. While
questions about the ultimate safety remain to be answered it seems prudent to avoid excessive
consumption.
For those who wish to avoid caffeine in coffee, there are a number of alternative beverage
preparations available. In addition, decaffeinated coffees, which have been prepared by extraction
of the natural caffeine, contain only about one-twentieth of the original caffeine.
