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Monday, May 13, 2013
Finals Guide
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EMILY WITTLER/KANSAN
Coffee is not always the answer during finals week. It is sometimes best to find alternatives to caffeine.
Mixing coffee with many energy drinks and other stimulants not effective
MEGAN LUCAS
mlucas@kansan.com
Before grabbing an energy drink or cup of coffee during finals week, consider side effects and healthier alternatives.
Dustin Rowe a senior from Sedgewick, normally consumes about two cans of Dr. Pepper a day. His intake typically triples during finals week.
Rowe began drinking soda during college.
"This past semester I have drank more pop than I have my whole time in school," Rowe said. "It keeps me awake and makes me focus."
Chelsea Butler, a freshman from Olathe drinks around two to three cans of Diet Coke a day, along with coffee. During finals week, that amount of Diet Coke increases to three to four cups.
According to Health Educator Liz Kocon,
"I started drinking caffeine my junior year of high school because of my AP classes and debate," Butler said. "It relieves my stress and keeps me awake."
coffee beans are a natural source of caffeine and can be beneficial. Kocon recommended going to coffees and teas for a caffeine source.
"Stay away from energy drinks, because they are artificial," Kocon said. "When it comes to coffee, eight to 12 ounces a day is fine—one to two cups a day. If you are ordering a fattening drink, have skim milk and no whipped cream."
Consuming a large amount of caffeine can increase the heart rates and cause vomiting and shakes. Mixing caffeine with stimulants such as Adderall and a lack of sleep can be dangerous.
"Caffeine has the same affects as Adderall," Kocon said. "Your body temperature rises, and it can feel like you are about to pass out."
Kocon suggested receiving protein for energy from meats, eggs and nuts, along with greens and fish in order to stay awake.
"Our college population has a lack of sleep due to late nights and early mornings," Kocon said. "Caffeine is a way to function."
Edited by Elise Reuter