Caffeine, which is a naturally occurring substance found in leaves, seeds, helps as a stimulant to temporarily delay fatigue and also sometimes cause insomnia in susceptible people.

It is found in tea, coffee and some soft drinks. Drinks with higher levels of caffeine are labelled as energy drinks.

There are many misconceptions about this food component. Here are the six most common myths about caffeine that are not true.

Also Read| Is consuming caffeine regularly good or bad for your body?

Myth: Caffeine is addictive

Fact: According to experts, caffeine is not addictive. Though if its consumption is abruptly ceased, some people might experience headaches, fatigue and drowsiness. These symptoms last maximum for a day and can be managed easily by reducing caffeine intake gradually.

Myth: Caffeine increases risk of heart failure

Fact: Scientists over years have conducted multiple large scale studies that revealed no connection between caffeine consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease. It might cause a slight rise in blood pressure in people who are sensitive to it. Still, people suffering from high blood pressure must consult their physician about their caffeine intake.

Also Read: Trying to get pregnant? Know which foods affect fertility in men and women

Myth: Caffeine causes cancer

Fact: Experts in Norway and Hawaii studied more than 20,000 and found no relationship between regular coffee consumption/tea consumption and cancer risk.

Myth: Risk of osteoporosis increases due to caffeine

Fact: There are studies suggesting that caffeine intake may increase calcium loss in the urine. However, any loss has been found to be minimal and having caffeine in limit does not appear to affect calcium balance or bone density. More and more studies have confirmed that intake of caffeine is not a risk factor for osteoporosis.

Also Read| Diet watch: How food impacts your chances of getting COVID

Myth: Pregnant women and women trying to conceive should avoid caffeine

Fact: According to different studies, caffeine-containing beverages have no effect on reproductive factors. There is no solid evidence to find any relation between caffeine intake and the ability to conceive. Two major studies conducted in the United States have found no correlation between caffeine consumption and pregnancy outcome or birth defects. 

Also Read: Why ginger tea is the best thing you can do for your health

Myth: Caffeine can affect kids adversely

Fact: Scientist say that children’s bodies can process caffeine same as adults. Various studies have revealed that foods and drinks containing caffeine is consumed in moderation have no effects kids.