Coffee is consumed by many individuals to aid with energy and alertness. Coffee is hot,

aromatic, and considered enjoyable by many. The first documented use of coffee was in the 15th

century in the Sufi monasteries in the part of the world that is now Yemen. The Sufis used the

beverage to aid in concentration and to keep themselves alert while performing night time

devotions. While most will have no problem drinking one or two cups of coffee a day, drinking

too much coffee can cause health problems and lead to coffee dependence.

Caffeine in coffee is the drug that causes many of the effects of coffee. Caffeine is a

stimulant which many people use to wake up in the morning and stay mentally alert throughout

the day. Studies show that 30 milligrams or less of caffeine can alter mood and affect behavior

and 100 mg per day can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon abstinence.

The most common withdrawal symptoms: headache, fatigue, drowsiness, difficulty

concentrating, decreased motivation, irritability, depression, anxiety, flu-like symptoms, and

impaired cognitive performance.

Students in college, for example, can easily become dependent on coffee. Classroom hours

are demanding and students must be alert. College also requires many hours of concentration and

focus to complete assignments, and prepare for test. Students must also find time for activities of

daily living, and responsibilities other than school. Drinking coffee can easily become an integral

part of daily activities under circumstances like these.

Besides becoming dependent on coffee, there are other health concerns associated with

drinking coffee. According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, coffee has no nutritional value and can lead to

health problems . He says that overconsumption can lead to