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Opinion | November 2, 2023

Is it OK to be a caffeine addict? I thrive off of caffeine, there's more benefits than harm

Graphic By Alicia Alvarez

Coffee and other caffeinated beverages have changed my life in the best way possible. 

Seriously though, I do not know where I’d be today if coffee never entered my life.  

Other than on Sunday, everyday I roll out of bed and make myself a nice warm cup of coffee, followed by an iced coffee from my all time favorite cafe - Philz. 

If for some reason I’ve run out of coffee, I’ll settle with a RedBull or Monster Energy drink. 

Of course, there are occasionally some side effects with having too much caffeine intake, but that goes for everything, like fast food for instance. 

Sorry to break it to you but I truly believe that the most productive individuals drink coffee. 

If I had a million dollars to place a bet that the CEO of the most well known company drinks coffee, I would put every single dollar I have down. 

According to an article published by The Guardian, “high achievers are also the type to get up at the crack of dawn in desperate need of a caffeine hit to kick-start their day.”

Opposingly, underachievers have plenty of time to slowly roll out of their messy beds, sleepwalk to the kitchen and absent-mindedly boil a kettle for tea, according to the same article. 

Not only does coffee boost someone's productivity, it brings people together.

It’s always “Let’s meet for coffee,” never “Let’s meet for non-caffeinated tea.” 

Coffee is often associated with social gatherings, meetings, and relaxation. It reminds me of many positive memories , whether it's a cozy morning routine, meeting friends at a cute local café, or enjoying a cup of coffee after a long day. 

If I don’t have my daily dose of coffee, I am the most apathetic individual. 

According to an article by Healthline, caffeine is a natural stimulant that can increase alertness, reduce fatigue and improve a person’s overall mood. 

Caffeine can create a sense of energy and focus, which many people find enjoyable and helpful.

There are so many pros to drinking coffee. Besides being a natural energy booster, coffee has a rich and complex flavor profile that includes various notes such as bitterness, sweetness and acidity.  

Caffeine in coffee can increase adrenaline levels, according to an article by Better Health. 

Increased levels of adrenaline may enhance physical performance, hence why many athletes use coffee as an ergogenic aid before workouts.

Coffee comes in many different ways, from espresso to cold brew to cappuccinos. It can be customized with various flavors, syrups and milk choices. This variety allows individuals to find a drink that suits their taste buds. 

I applaud anyone that does not consume caffeine on a daily basis and still manages to be productive and make it to work or school on time with a smile on their face, but that could not be me. 

Just like anything else, caffeine should not be abused. It's important to note that the key to enjoying its potential benefits is self-discipline.

Drinking excessive amounts of coffee or caffeinated drinks, and consuming it in unhealthy forms can nullify the positive effects, according to an article by the Mayo Clinic. 

Amongst other things, the love for coffee and caffeinated beverages can vary from person to person, but there are several reasons why many individuals, like myself, develop a strong affection for coffee. 

Caffeine is considered a “drug” according to the KidsHealth website.

When I think about a drug, I think about opioids, methamphetamine or cocaine, definitely not coffee. 

At the end of the day, I’m far more addicted to my vape than any caffeinated drinks. 

I know when I've had too much caffeine just based on how jittery I feel, it’s a similar feeling to trying to lie to my parents when I was younger. 

Of course, not everything is enjoyable for everyone and that is perfectly fine, I will keep drinking coffee and caffeinated drinks with my fellow “caffeine addicts,” and the tea drinkers can enjoy their princess tea parties.