Caffeine also acts as a diuretic and increases the secretion of gastric acid in the stomach. Like other food additives, caffeine is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration under the Food Additive Amendment of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. In the 1980s, several studies linked caffeine to certain health hazards, calling for continued research. As a result, caffeine is now the most extensively studied food ingredient in our food supply. However, the efficacy of its use for this reason is questionable.
Individuals vary in their response to caffeine, based on gender and body composition.
It has, however, been studied extensively in combination with other drugs for use in weight control. Caffeine combined with ephedrine, which are amphetamine-like compounds, have shown positive effects on weight loss, but one should know that this compound affects the heart and nervous system. Caffeine and other stimulants enhance the effects of ephedrine, and the FDA, after investigation, suggests a limit on the amount of ephedrine and proper package labeling and warning information. Without doubt, the stimulation effect of caffeine is the primary reason for its popularity. Feelings of alertness, quickened reaction time, improved memory.