What is the scientific explanation?
In general, it is accepted that consuming coffee can cause the body to experience a release of adrenaline associated with increased heart rate and increased blood pressure which can lead to a feeling of being overstimulated that may cause the body to produce the shakes. This occurs because the substances present in coffee act as stimulants, increasing alertness and energy levels while also affecting the sympathetic nervous system. Specifically, coffee consumption increases the production of cortisol and epinephrine, both of which are hormones that can contribute to the shakes.
What are the research findings?
A study conducted at Harvard Medical School found that drinking more than four cups of coffee a day was associated with an increase in tremor severity. The study concluded that these tremors are most likely being caused by the caffeine in the coffee which serves to reduce the brain’s sensitivity towards GABA—a neurotransmitter that helps promote calmness in the body.
Additionally, a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health used a placebo-controlled trial to test the effects of caffeine on motor functions. This study found that individuals who consumed greater amounts of caffeine experienced significantly more postural tremor than those in the placebo group.
What can be done to prevent the shakes?
The best way to avoid the shakes from coffee is to limit your intake. If you are already experiencing the shakes, then increasing water intake can help as well. Getting enough rest and engaging in light physical activity may also help reduce the effects of the shakes.
It is also important to be aware of other sources of caffeine in your diet. Certain energy drinks, cocoa drinks, and even some teas may all contain caffeine, so limiting your intake of these beverages can help to reduce the likelihood of experiencing the shakes.
What are the considerations?
There are several considerations to keep in mind if you experience the shakes from drinking coffee. First, coffee can cause you to become dehydrated, so it is important to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Second, as previously mentioned, coffee can affect the production of hormones, so if you are on any medication or have a history of mental health issues, then it is important to speak with your doctor before consuming coffee to explore any potential risks. Finally, caffeine can interact with some medications, so it is important to discuss any medication you are taking with your doctor.
What are the longterm effects?
Drinking coffee can cause temporary symptoms such as the shakes but the long-term effects of coffee consumption can vary. For example, coffee can lead to increased anxieties and irritability over time, as well as increased risk of heart problems, insomnia, and high blood pressure.
It is important to keep in mind that different people may react differently to coffee and that caffeine sensitivity is highly individualized. As such, it is important to pay attention to your body and to take precautions before consuming caffeine-containing beverages.
I’ve experienced the shakes from drinking coffee on a few occasions and it is an uncomfortable feeling. It usually starts with feeling an increased heart rate, followed by trembling in my hands and an overall feeling of overstimulation. The feeling usually subsides within minutes and is not something I am overly concerned about.
From my own experience, I think the best way to prevent the shakes is to be aware of how much coffee I’m consuming and to make sure I’m regularly hydrating myself. Additionally, I think it’s important to pay attention to what I’m consuming throughout the day. If I’m feeling tired or sluggish, then I will opt for a decaffeinated beverage or an herbal tea such as chamomile to give me an energy boost without overstimulation.
Social implications
Coffee has long been an accepted socially and it is a regular part of many people’s daily routines. It is also widely available which may lead to overconsumption. As such, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of consuming too much caffeine-containing beverages and to take precautions to ensure that the shakes are not experienced.
Having conversations with friends, family, and colleagues about the potential risks associated with drinking too much coffee can help to encourage positive behaviors when it comes to consuming caffeine-containing beverages. Additionally, discussing ways to remain productive and alert throughout the day without relying on caffeine can also be valuable.
Health implications
The health implications of consuming too much caffeine can be considerable. For example, regular consumption of caffeine-containing beverages has been linked to an increased risk of anxiety and irritability, as well as a higher risk of heart problems, insomnia, and high blood pressure.
For this reason, it is important to pay attention to how your body is responding to caffeine-containing beverages and to be mindful of how much you are consuming. Additionally, it is important to speak with your doctor if you are taking medication or have a pre-existing mental health condition before consuming caffeine-containing beverages.
Summary
In summary, some people may experience the shakes from drinking coffee due to an adrenaline release from the stimulants present in coffee. Research has shown that consuming more than four cups per day can increase tremor severity. Taking precautions such as drinking plenty of water and being aware of other sources of caffeine can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing the shakes. Additionally, it is important to pay attention to the long-term effects of consuming caffeine-containing beverages and to take into account potential interactions with any medications you may be taking before consuming coffee.
