For centuries, many cultures have enjoyed caffeine-containing foods and beverages. In fact, as long ago as 2,700 BC the Chinese Emperor Shen Nung sipped hot brewed tea. In 575 AD coffee beans were used as currency and were consumed as food in Africa.

Today, caffeine is widely consumed around the world and is one of the most extensively studied ingredients in terms of its potential effects on health.

To investigate the findings from research on caffeine and health, scientists at Health Canada conducted a comprehensive literature search of more than 250 research studies focusing on caffeine and health. (Health Canada is the federal department responsible for helping Canadians maintain and improve their health.) Among the many health issues investigated were cardiovascular effects, effects on calcium balance and bone status, behavioral effects in adults and children, carcinogenic potential, and reproductive effects. The findings of the 2003 report, Effects of Caffeine on Human Health, provided answers to some frequently asked questions about caffeine and, on the basis of the data reviewed, concluded that there is "ample evidence indicating that for the general population of healthy adults, moderate caffeine intake. . . is not associated with adverse effects."

Source: Effects of Caffeine on Human Health. P. Nawrot, S. Jordan, J. Eastwood, et al. Food Additives and Contaminants, 2003, Vol. 20, No. 1, pg. 1-30.

For more information about caffeine and health, visit the International Food Information Council Foundation Web site at http://ific.org.