2013
Informative Speech Caffeine
SaVana A. Nye
SPCH-1010
Gott
12/1/2013
Nye |2
SaVana A. Nye
12/1/2013
Speech Outline
Gott – SPCH 1010
Introduction –
What is caffeine?
The effects of caffeine intake
Tips for caffeine consumption

Within my discussion, I will weigh both the benefits and detrimental effects of
how caffeine can alter the senses, as well as discuss how to assess your caffeine
intake against the daily recommended amount of the drug.

Caffeine is a huge part of our daily lives and our intake often reflects our health
status.
Body -




The drug can often be found in many products throughout our society.
It can often be used in moderation in order to prevent Alzheimer’s disease,
Parkinson’s, and even asthma. (Hensrud, 2010)
 This is a major source of alertness, altering mood, and improving
concentration.
While safe to use in moderation, the consumption levels of most Americans is
often dangerous and can be detrimental to their health.
 Insomnia, dizziness, and anxiety are often signs of over-consumption of
caffeine.
 Those who consume large amounts frequently become addicted and
dependent on the drug.
 Overdose has been reported from the drug and is a rising concern.
Monitoring and implementing a caffeine-regulating diet is essential through
reading nutritional labels and knowing ingredients within the products you
consume on a daily basis.
 Recommended amount by the FDA of caffeine intake is 200-300 mg of
caffeine per day. (Somogyi, 2009)
 Searching for low-caffeinated sodas and alternatives to energy drinks is a
manageable way to monitor your intake, as well as recording your diet
through smart phone apps.
Nye |3
Caffeine, known as the life-source of most college students, is a chemical that can
drastically alter mood, alertness, and improving concentration. As a nervous system stimulant, it
affects not only the spinal cord but also the brain and other sources of energy within the body.
(Food and Drug Administration, 2007) Within my discussion, I will weigh both the benefits and
detrimental effects of how caffeine can alter the senses, as well as discuss how to assess your
caffeine intake against the daily recommended amount of the drug.
Studies have shown throughout time that increased caffeine consumption can cure the
worst of fatigue, and helps motivate those 90% of the world’s population that partake in the drug
on a daily basis. (Food and Drug Administration, 2007) Caffeine can be found in most foods and
beverages in society such as coffee, energy drinks, chocolate, and many other products. We
encounter it on a daily basis and it is very important to know how it affects the body. Most
scientists have found that in moderation, coffee can help prevent some long-term disease later on
in life such as Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s and even asthma. (Hensrud, 2010) Most
caffeinated products have major sources of anti-oxidants, substances that fight infection and help
build the immune system.
However, most citizens in the United States have nearly twice the recommended amount
of caffeine every single day, including children. Too much of the drug has been shown to lead to
headaches, dizziness, insomnia, and often worsens conditions of depression and anxiety. It is
possible in large doses to overdose on the drug as well, and with the rise of energy drinks and
caffeine pills, the danger for this occurrence is steadily rising. (Heller, 2010) Those who
consume large amounts often develop a tolerance and can create a dependency in order to get
going every day.
In order to begin observing your caffeine intake, pay close attention to nutrition labels on
not only foods and beverages but also any medications you are taking. The recommended
amount by the FDA is 200-300 mg of caffeine a day, or 2-4 cups of coffee. (Somogyi, 2009)
Most energy drinks can contain anywhere upwards of twice the daily recommendation. In order
to curb your caffeine intake, there are many different apps on newer smart phones that allow you
to track your caloric count and caffeine intake throughout the day. Also, choosing lower
caffeinated drinks and juice or water as an alternative to coffee or high-sugar soda is an excellent
way to monitor your energy levels. By curbing the amount of dependence America holds upon
caffeine, hopefully we can move towards less instances of heart disease and anxiety and more
healthy alternatives within consumption.
Nye |4
Works Cited
Food and Drug Administration. (2007, Fall). Medicines in my Home: Caffeine and Your Body.
Retrieved December 1, 2013, from Food and Drug Administration: Understand the Over-theCounter Medicines:
http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafel
y/UnderstandingOver-the-CounterMedicines/UCM205286.pdf
Heller, J. L. (2010). Caffeine Overdose. Seattle: National Institute of Health.
Hensrud, D. M. (2010). Coffee In Moderation May Offer Health Benefits. Rocchester: Mayo
Clinic.
Somogyi, L. P. (2009, September). Caffeine Intake by the U.S. Population. The Oakridge
Laboratory, Oak Ridge.