Caffeine: world’s most widely used psychoactive drug

Created by Danielle PayneProposal Slide Show

English 2010Professor R. Frank PhD

What is Caffeine?Caffeine is:Naturally found in tea leaves, coffee beans,

and fruits of over 60 plants worldwide.It is a white, bitter crystalline alkaloidIt is tasteless and odorlessIt can be produced synthetically

Central Nervous System StimulateIs an agent that

provides pleasure or reliefs pain, and may cause physical dependence and tolerance, with a tendency to increase the dose in order to achieve the same effect.

In descending order of addictive potential .

coca

ine

amph

etam

ines

opia

tes

nico

tine

alco

hol

benz

odia

zepi

ne

barb

itura

tes

cann

abis

hallu

cino

gens

caffei

ne

Side Effects when Consumed in Large Amounts

Caffeine consumed in amounts greater than 350 mg, depending on the age, gender, and weight of a person may result in side effects such as:

Recommended daily doseFood and Drug Administration does not

provide any recommendations for caffeine consumption.

American Dietetic Association states that 300 to 400 mg of caffeine is safe to consume for Adults

No recommendations have been given for young children and teenagers.

Why is Caffeine added?Caffeine is a tasteless,

odorless ingredient used in many beverage products.

The average annual intake of caffeinated beverages is over 64 gallons per year for children and teens, according to a 1994 Department of Agriculture study

Why is it included in products if it adds no taste advantages? The answer is simple: It is only included in products for its legal stimulant effect.

Caffeine Content of frequently consumed beverages

0

100

200

300

400

500

600 350

330

200160 144 120

55 47 45 41 35Ounces

ProposalFDA needs to get

involved and educate consumers about possible side effects.

Amount of caffeine should be added to the nutrition label.