The never-ending loop of my life as a college student: waking up and having the first real priority of the day be caffeine. For others it could be coffee, whether it’s a latte, frappuccino, or occasional caffeinated chewing gum. Mine is energy drinks. Whatever option you choose, be sure to consider moderation.
I’m certain we all see desks with multiple vibrant colored cans sitting on top, class after class. I am a witness and a contributor to this.
There are several factors that draw me, and an overall student body, to drink caffeine such as not finishing homework until late at night. We rely on an energy drink for a boost, causing less sleep, so the next day we feel the need to drink another energy drink.
Caffeine can help dampen pain, so using it as a gym tool is common. We might get nervous that we won’t be able to focus in class if we have not fed this mysterious dependency.
A terrifying thing we sometimes forget about caffeine is that it is in fact an addictive chemical, making this drug overlooked and rarely spoken about. Caffeine blocks tiredness and releases dopamine in your brain. It also builds your tolerance, and quitting the consumption of caffeine can give you withdrawal symptoms.
College campuses have fully embraced this culture by having a wide selection of choices in each vending machine, cafeteria and coffee shop.
According to Cleveland Clinic, consuming caffeine in moderation is safe. When you have that energy drink, be sure to notice the signs of addiction and don’t over consume caffeine. Instead, consider drinking healthier drinks instead of sugary drinks with loads of caffeine. As long as you’re drinking more water than energy drinks, I don’t see the issue in caffeine consumption.
Categories: Opinion
