In a study published by the Word Journal of Biological Pyschiatry, researchers analysed the caffeine consumption of more than 200,000 people spanning a period of nearly 20 years.
They found that, for both men and women, those who took in 400mg of the stimulant
a day – the equivalent of two to three cups of coffee – were statistically 50 per cent less likely to commit suicide.
The scientists said the statistics could possibly be explained by the fact that caffeine boosts production
of serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, effectively acting as a mild antidepressant.
Despite the results, researchers advised against people drastically changing their drinking habits in order to self-medicate.
I – Word Understanding
Spanning – extend across (a period of time)
Stimulant – is any chemical that increases activity, interest, or enthusiasm in a specified field.
Serotonin – a hormone and neurotransmitter, that is involved in sleep, depression, memory, and other neurological processes.
Dopamine – a hormone of which gives signal to nerve cells to produce pleasant, and motivation feelings.
Noradrenaline – acts as a neurotransmitter and as a stress hormone. It regulates arousal in times of physical and mental stress and helps us stay alert in dangerous situations.
II – Have your say
1. As expected, caffeine content of coffee improves alertness and mental performance. It may even helped reduce the risk of workplace accidents.Most likely what beverage do you tkae whenever you are exhausted?
2. Top 5 foods that spark depression
1.Corn syrup with processed sugar.
2.Cold and cured meats contain 2,000 mg. of sodium.
3.Soda with artificial sweeteners.
4.Fried and baked potatoes.
5.Alcohol
3. Overall, we should increase our awareness on the side effects that we might received from the food and beverage we take.
143 Harvard scientists say coffee ‘could halve risk of suicide’
