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Alex Frank / Spoon
Wellness

Why Caffeine is Actually Really Good for Your Soul

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Mass Amherst chapter.

Every morning or some time in the day, we all struggle to stay awake and need a little pick me up. Nothing wrong with it because it actually has some health benefits. The most primary and obvious one being is caffeine being a stimulant. So it’s going to improve your mood, your alertness, and decrease your fatigue. Caffeine has antioxidants that help improve brain function and boost our central nervous system. Along with that, it can majorly improve the heart game. It’s been reported that coffee drinkers are less likely to die from some of the leading causes of death in women: coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and kidney disease.’ Seeing all this gives an even better reason to drink it every morning. I definitely grab it in the morning sometimes before my Italian class just so I can stay focused and alert. 

Aside from all the health benefits, it is so necessary for our well being and soul. I just think I need a cuppa for my mental health and wellness.  There isn’t anything wrong with that because it can increase our happiness and satisfaction. What’s more important than that? We all sometimes are like, is it too much? Should I cut down? You know that phrase, all’s well in moderation. It definitely applies here at times. Honestly, just as soul food exists, soul drinks also exist. Caffeine is one of them. It has this calming effect and you just get happy looking at it. I know everyone relates. I think we can compare it to Felix Felicis, the luck potion in Harry Potter because it just helps navigate the day. It’s a good comfort drink, it’s there all along with you during classes or while you’re studying or traveling. It sounds a little like a teddy bear but I think that is the perfect comparison. 

As much as it feels good, it is also detrimental in high intakes. For those who have anxiety and depression, this worsens symptoms. It can worsen insomnia as well. But, I do think high intakes of anything a drink or food isn’t healthy and doesn’t lead to any good benefits. So it’s important to note, moderation is key. Never stray too far, you’ll be okay. There are definitely different sources of caffeine whether it’s coffee, espresso, tea, chocolate, or energy drinks. The recommended amounts according to the U.S. FDA is 400 mg daily, which is just about 4 cups of brewed coffee. That’s five and half cups of matcha tea and six cups of espresso. Personally, those recommendations sound like a lot to me. I only drink one – two cups of matcha a day. That’s for my own moderation. I know that I used to drink a lot of coffee, like cups on cups. And consequently, has led me to be an insomniac. Which is why I love caffeine, love it, just don’t overdo it. 

So, it’s important to be aware of moderation but definitely grab that coffee or tea in the morning, and go along with your day with good positive vibes.

Cheers to March!

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Sidrat Siddiqui

U Mass Amherst '22

Sidrat Siddiqui is a senior studying the world of Chemistry. When she isn't studying, you will find her drinking a cuppa matcha, sleeping for inordinate amounts of time, and spending late nights reading books.