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Q: Does caffeine intake increase the risk of miscarriage?

A: A cause and effect relationship between caffeine intake and miscarriage has not been established. In fact, a 2008 study sponsored by the National Institutes of Health and published in the journal Epidemiology found "little indication of possible harmful effects of caffeine on miscarriage risk within the range of coffee and caffeine consumption reported."

Q: Is caffeine addictive?

A: Most people who consume caffeine maintain a relatively consistent level of intake. While caffeine is considered a mild stimulant, recent studies have shown that those who enjoy caffeinated products are able to reduce or stop their caffeine consumption without difficulty.  Some individuals may experience adverse reactions such as headaches when suddenly abstaining from caffeine, but these feelings tend to be mild and pass within a few days.

Q: Does drinking caffeinated beverages lead to high blood pressure?

A: High blood pressure is a complex condition with many underlying factors. Recent studies show no association between caffeine consumption and high blood pressure.

Q: Is caffeine safe for children?

A: Yes. Other than the normal effects of caffeine, studies of caffeine's effects on children show little to no consequence. A recent review of the literature on caffeine and children found that "overall, the effects of caffeine in children seem to be modest and typically innocuous."

Q: Can pregnant women consumer caffeine?

A: According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, caffeinated beverages are acceptable in moderation (300 mg or less of caffeine daily intake) for pregnant women. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women limit caffeine consumption to the equivalent of one to two cups of coffee, which is typically less than the recommended amount. Pregnant women should discuss their beverage choices with their healthcare provider.

Q: Do caffeinated drinks cause type 2 diabetes?

A: According to the American Diabetes Association, caffeine consumption is not a risk factor for the disease. Current research shows no evidence that caffeine consumption causes diabetes. In fact, a recent study found a 60 percent reduced risk of type 2 diabetes in coffee drinkers.

Q: Does caffeine consumption have any impact on bone health?

A: Studies show that caffeine does not have any harmful effect on bone formation or calcium absorption in individuals who currently consume the recommended daily allowances of calcium.

Q: Do caffeinated beverages serve as a diuretic?

A: While caffeine may have a mild, short-term diuretic effect in individuals who do not normally consume caffeine, studies have shown that this is not the case for people who regularly consume caffeine. In fact, a 2004 report on water intake needs by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences concluded that all beverages, including those with caffeine, can help maintain hydration.

Link to Health Canada's websites on caffeine:

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/food-aliment/caffeine-eng.php

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/securit/facts-faits/caffeine-eng.php