Abstract
Objectives:
To determine the use of products containing caffeine, the side effects associated with this use, the timing of the side effects after consumption, and whether there is a relationship between the development of side effects and the dose of caffeine consumed among young adults. A threshold level of weekly caffeine consumption is being sought in this population, above which there are increased side effects.
Design:
A cross-sectional study using convenience sampling strategy was adopted by using a self-administered newly designed questionnaire.
Setting:
Secondary schools, one postsecondary institute, and the University of the West Indies were used.
Subjects:
Students 18–20-years-old.
Results:
The response rate was 391/412 (94.9%). Significant dose-dependent relationships between the dose of weekly caffeine consumed and: (i) the frequency of occurrence of palpitations (p = 0.001) and (ii) the frequency of sleep disturbances (p = 0.001) were observed. Doses of weekly caffeine consumption of >428.5 mg were significant predictors for headaches, restlessness, and state anxiety in this population. All symptoms, except a depressed feeling, occurred most commonly within 4 hours of consumption of caffeinated products and were mainly attributed to colas, coffee, and teas by participants. A depressed feeling was more attributed to energy drinks.
Conclusion:
Most side effects were related to the acute effects of caffeine, but depressed feeling was more commonly reported as a withdrawal effect of caffeine. Caffeine intake in this young adult population should be recommended to be less than 428.5 mg/week in an attempt to reduce the occurrence of these side effects.
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