Caffeine's effects are far-reaching

By Bob Guinn
Clemson Extension Agent

(The following article was written by Meghan Morrison, a registered dietitian who performed an internship at Beaufort Memorial Hospital.)

Caffeine is the most popular and readily available drug in the world. It occurs naturally in plants and acts as a mild stimulant to the nervous system.

Caffeine is a psychoactive drug used for both medical and non-medical reasons, most often non-medically for its stimulating effect on mood and behavior. It increases alertness, attention and mental ability. Anxiety, gastrointestinal distress, nervousness, irritability, insomnia and inability to concentrate are some negative side effects.

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