It also increases the incidence of obesity, gout, fetal abnormality and cancer of the liver, breast, oesophagus, larynx or mouth. Red wine, rich in bioflavonoids, is the healthiest form of alcohol. In moderation, it can be GOOD for you. Caffeine has been implicated as a cause in such conditions as anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, depression, cardiovascular problems, muscle tremors and urinary and perspiration problems, to name but a few. However, there are also beneficial effects related to caffeine which partly explain the widespread popularity of coffee and tea.
Caffeine significantly improves mental performance, mood and physical endurance.
It also dilates the bronchial tubes - a beneficial effect for asthmatics. Despite its caffeine content, tea, especially unfermented green tea, has a high flavonoid content and is associated with a whole range of health benefits. It appears that many hot, spicy foods act as both a preventative and a treatment for bronchitis. Surveys throughout the world show that where the cuisine is hot and spicy, respiratory problems and pulmonary disease rates are low, even if smoking and environmental pollution are prevalent. Garlic has antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant and decongestant properties, making it an effective treatment for bronchitis too.