Caffeine, one of the world's most widely used drugs, has been part of the human diet for centuries. It exists naturally in plants such as coffee, tea, and cocoa, and is added to products such as soft drinks and nonprescription medications. For most people, small amounts of caffeine act only as a mild stimulant by increasing the heart rate and blood pressure.
Some people drink coffee exactly for that reason.
You may want to reduce caffeine while you are pregnant or nursing to reduce intake by the baby. Let your doctor guide you on caffeine consumption, particularly if you suffer from high blood pressure, gastritis, or ulcers. Be aware that your sensitivity to caffeine may increase with age. Back to top . The major caffeine carriers Coffee remains this country's chief source of caffeine.