Caffeine use disorder: Widespread health problem that needs more attention
Wednesday, January 29, 2014 - 14:00
in Health & Medicine
"I'm a zombie without my morning coffee." "My blood type is Diet Coke." "Caffeine isn't a drug, it's a vitamin." Most people make jokes like these about needing a daily boost from their favorite caffeinated beverage -- whether first thing in the morning or to prevent the after-lunch slump. But a recent study indicates that more people are dependent on caffeine to the point that they suffer withdrawal symptoms and are unable to reduce caffeine consumption even if they have another condition that may be impacted by caffeine -- such as a pregnancy, a heart condition, or a bleeding disorder.