Phil Randle contributing writer Chances are you've walked around campus and seen people drinking coffee on their way to class, or perhaps last semester during finals, you needed a cup of coffee or a can of Mountain Dew to wake you up so you could be clear-headed for the big test.
Caffeine is a daily part of many students' lives.
Caffeine is found naturally in more than 60 plants, as well as in leaves and seeds, and it can also be made synthetically. It is classified as a central nervous system stimulant and also considered a diuretic. Because of the effect of caffeine on the body, it almost compares to a drug. Like drugs, excessive use can lead to unhealthy side effects. They include an increased heart rate, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, anxiety, depression and restlessness.