Others, whose body has become used to the drug, may be able to drink more than three or four cups of coffee without experiencing any outward signs. Inwardly, blood pressure, cholesterol, heart and metabolic rates, respiration and blood glucose concentration are all affected by caffeine. While some studies claim to have linked caffeine to cancer, benign breast fibrocystic disease and other illnesses, the evidence is not sufficient to link any of these with certainty. There is stronger evidence that caffeine takes calcium out of the body, a risk for teens when bones are growing rapidly and for post-menopausal women who are at greater risk for osteoporosis. Caffeine is a powerful drug and it may be difficult to give up at first.
Some people suffer headaches and other discomfort when suddenly discontinuing caffeine.
It is usually easier to gradually reduce caffeine than to stop all at once. Then gradually do the same for your first cup of the day. Brimming with vitamins and minerals, it is only 15 calories. I drink it most mornings and find it delicious. Alcohol is another drug whose effect on heart disease and health has been debated, but the exact degree of cause and effect is not clearly established.