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I'm genetically predisposed to early onset osteoporosis, so I'm trying to cut back on acids in my diet. Coffee is a big one, but I'm also still in school so I'm very attached to caffeine. Would switching from coffee to caffeine powder have any health risks?

I own and can use a milligram scale to measure the caffeine, so I'm not worried about measuring out safe doses. I would try to intake roughly the same amount of caffeine that I would by drinking coffee, so the amount of caffeine would not change.

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Caffeine comes from coffee beans, but it can also be synthesized in a laboratory.

Caffeine has the same structure whether it’s in Coffee, Energy Drinks, Tea or pills/powder.

Caffeine dosages should be tailored to individuals. If you are new to caffeine supplements then the usual recommended start is with a 100mg dose (see warning below). Typically, 200mg of caffeine is used for fat-burning supplementation (impact is still being discussed in scientific community), while acute strength increases occur at higher doses, 500mg and above (again, still under discussion). Researchers tend to use a dosage range of 4-6mg/kg bodyweight.

The structure is the same but its easier to take more than you are used to if you measure wrong. I would personally suggest you avoid powder and go for pill form if you are set on reducing intake through less coffee.

You can read more about caffeine over at Examine.com

Caution Notice

Caffeine is highly stimulatory and a systemic vasoconstrictor. Caution should be exerted if one is either not used to caffeine ingestion or currently has high blood pressure.

Caffeine should not be used as a supplement in those with cardiac impairments without prior consultation of one's doctor.

Caffeine can also have an effect on ones quality of sleep; while you may be able to fall asleep, it will be of inferior quality.

Note: Habitual caffeine use leads to tolerance. This means the effects of caffeine will be diminished, often to the point where the only benefit a user experiences is caffeine’s anti-sleep effect. This is an ‘insurmountable’ tolerance, which means more caffeine will not overcome it. A month-long break from caffeine will reduce tolerance.

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    I'd add that caffeine doesn't come from coffee beans per se. I believe tea also has it? But for mass production coffee (robusta) is probably the most efficient.
    – jiggunjer
    Sep 16, 2016 at 11:59

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