The substance in coffee which causes it to be so invigorating was, of course, caffeine, the alkaloid which gives coffee its kick and aroma, and which is also found, in smaller quantities, in tea and chocolate. Researchers at Oxford University have also found that it may play a part in speeding up the pain-killing effect of the drug, ibuprofen. Patients who had surgery for impacted molars were given 100mg or 200mg of caffeine with their ibuprofen and it was found that they had significantly more relief an hour or so later than those who had received ibuprofen alone.
Caffeine also stimulates the heart and central nervous system, enhances mental performance, stimulates the production of digestive juices in the stomach, aiding digestion and also dilates the air passages in the lungs. Both ordinary and decaffeinated coffee contain antioxidants which can protect against ageing, cancer and heart disease, but strong coffee which has been made by methods such as cafetière has been shown to raise blood cholesterol levels.
Unfortunately, the caffeine in coffee, (and tea), also acts as a diuretic, causing the body to lose water and flushing away valuable minerals such as calcium and high caffeine intakes have been associated with osteoporosis, which is a major cause of the weakening of bones in post-menopausal women.. It is also addictive, and in high amounts can cause tremors, sweating and palpitations. Sudden withdrawal, however, can cause severe headaches, lethargy and irritability.
2006-08-16 14:17:38
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answer #2
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answered by Mad Irishman 3
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Coffee has caffeine which acts as a stimulant by raising your blood pressure and hear rate. Some people who are sluggish by nature interpret this as being invigorating. Go figure....
2006-08-16 14:07:39
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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Coffee contains caffeine.....which stimulates your central nervous system by causing the release of neurotransmitters, giving a feeling of alertness.
2006-08-16 14:04:55
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answer #4
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answered by Robert b 4
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because of the caffine that it contains. Caffine makes your heart beat faster and gives you that invigorating feeling. It makes your body feel energized...
2006-08-16 14:03:17
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answer #5
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answered by A.J. 1
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