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Caffeine has been an ingredient in some of the world's favourite foods and beverages for thousands of years. Legend has it that
tea was discovered in China in 2737 BC by the Emperor Shen Nung when the leaves of a wild tea bush accidentally fell into a pot
of boiling water. Today, some of our best-loved foods and beverages, such as chocolate, coffee, tea, cocoa and cola soft drinks,
all derive part of their appeal from the distinctive flavour properties of caffeine. The very fact that caffeine consumption is
so common and widespread has spurred interest in its human health role.
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According to experts at the World Health Organisation and other health organisations, there is no basis for equating the effects
of caffeine with those of drug abuse. Of particular interest to soft-drink consumers, a report from the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration found "no evidence to show that the use of caffeine in carbonated beverages would render these products injurious to health".
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Bone Health - Adequate calcium intake and physical activity are the main factors in healthy bone development in children and
teens. Calcium intake is also essential for maintaining bone mass into older adulthood. Researchers have found no significant
effect of caffeine on the absorption or excretion of calcium. Similarly, several research projects have not identified any
connection between moderate use of caffeine and bone health in women who consume adequate calcium.
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Cancer - Numerous studies have not unearthed any evidence of any link between caffeine consumption and human cancer.
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Healthy Conception and Pregnancy - The majority of research done to date indicates that caffeine consumption has no impact on
fertility or length of time to conceive. A 1991 Danish study found that, if combined with smoking, heavy caffeine consumption of
eight or more cups of coffee per day could be associated with delayed conception. Medical experts encourage women to limit
caffeine consumption, especially during early pregnancy, to moderate amounts.
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Cardiovascular Disease - Numerous international studies have found no connection between caffeine and cardiovascular disease.
Although caffeine has not been linked to hypertension or to sustained elevation in blood pressure, individuals with high blood
pressure may wish to discuss caffeine consumption with their doctor. Sensitivity to caffeine may cause a temporary rise in blood
pressure after consumption. Typically, the effect is similar to climbing a flight of stairs.
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Caffeine in daily life - Most health experts consider moderate caffeine consumption to be up to 300 mg a day. Here is the
caffeine content of some favourite beverages and foods:
» Coca-Cola (25 cl) 23 mg
» diet Coke or Coca-Cola light (25 cl) 31 mg
» Brewed Coffee (25 cl) 85 mg
» Iced Tea (25 cl) 10 mg
» Milk Chocolate (100 g) 20 mg
» Dark Chocolate (100 g) 65 mg
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