Caffeine: What is it?
Alkaloid is the simplest way to describe caffeine. They have a variety of biochemical effects, e.g., they are easily oxidized into uric acid.
Coffee, tea, mate, and cola nuts are all sources of caffeine. Guarana is also present but in a much smaller amount. Caffeine stimulates heart and respiratory systems, while theobromine, another alkaloid (also found in the tea), relaxes smooth muscles.
Caffeine is an ingredient that we find in many products, from chocolates and energy drinks to coffee and colas. According to scientists, caffeine is safe in small amounts. There is also a downside – caffeine’s psychoactive stimulant qualities can lead to addiction, which can be as harmful to health as any other addiction.
