Is coffee addictive?

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Caffeine in coffee is a stimulant for the nervous system. Many people believe that this substance can be addictive, causing dependence if used over a long period. Is this actually true? Is coffee addictive? Let’s explore with 43 Factory Coffee Roaster in this article!

Caffeine in coffee

Caffeine was discovered in black coffee in 1820. It is a mildly addictive substance that affects the human brain but does not have any adverse effects on health.

Caffeine has a chemical formula of C8H10N4O2. This compound is soluble in water and lipids, making it easily absorbed directly into the bloodstream, quickly affecting the human brain and body after consumption.

Consuming caffeine in the correct dosage can bring health benefits such as enhancing the ability to prevent certain diseases: heart disease, liver, kidneys,…

Is coffee addictive?

Other stimulants like nicotine are considered addictive, while caffeine is recognized as safe. If used in appropriate doses, you will not become addicted to caffeine.

Why do many people believe coffee is addictive?

Many people feel they are addicted to coffee because of symptoms such as headaches or feeling tired, unable to concentrate, or nauseous when they do not consume it. The reason for this is that caffeine can affect the brain.

Caffeine has a chemical structure similar to adenosine – a molecule that functions to relax the central nervous system and induce drowsiness. Therefore, caffeine can bind to adenosine receptors in the brain and prevent adenosine from binding to these receptors to create a feeling of tiredness.

When brain cells begin to produce more adenosine receptors to compensate for the receptors blocked by caffeine, the body will demand increased caffeine intake. This can lead to a decrease in alertness after a period of coffee consumption, leading many people to mistakenly believe they are dependent on this beverage.

When we stop drinking coffee, the brain will have more free receptors for adenosine to bind to, making people feel tired, restless, and uncomfortable. This is because the body has become accustomed to producing more adenosine, and suddenly stopping caffeine intake leaves nothing to prevent it from binding to free receptors.

After a while, everything will return to normal. There is no need to worry too much about this.

Addiction” to coffee is different from typical addictions.

Being “addicted” to coffee will differ from the more severe addictions that people often think of. Strong addictions will have the following manifestations:

– Intense cravings and persistent desire for addictive substances until satisfied

– Difficulty in reducing or controlling usage

– Continued use despite knowing it is harmful

– Very difficult to successfully quit

People who feel they are “addicted” to coffee do not exhibit these intense symptoms. Therefore, caffeine is not truly an addictive substance.

The recommended caffeine intake to avoid coffee addiction

The amount of caffeine consumption to avoid coffee addiction will vary from person to person depending on their physical condition. Typically, consuming 200mg to 300mg of caffeine, equivalent to 2-3 cups of coffee per day, is considered moderate and generally safe for adults.

If you belong to any of the groups of people who should avoid drinking coffee, caffeine consumption must be strictly limited. You can replace regular black coffee with decaffeinated coffee (coffee with most of the caffeine removed).

Above, 43 Factory Coffee Roaster has helped readers understand more about coffee while answering the question “is coffee addictive?”. Hopefully, the useful information provided will help readers gain further insights into this flavorful beverage.

Related article:

– Is drinking hot or cold coffee better for your health?

– Is it advisable to drink orange juice after drinking coffee?

– Health risks of cheap decaf coffee consumption