Researchers have found contradictory results when it comes to testing the effects of caffeine.

At one end of the spectrum, caffeine can help to reduce the chances of developing gallstones, prevent cancers in the digestive tract and decrease the risk of kidney stone formation. On the other hand, caffeine is a drug and can be considered a "sleep stealer." Lack of sleep can result in impairing the ability to perform tasks involving memory, learning and logical reasoning.

"Many people are surprised when they cut caffeine out of their system, how much better they feel," said Kathy Petroff, a nurse manager at University Health Services.

When caffeine intake is too high, studies show a dependency can form. When addicts attempt to break this habit, headaches, fatigue, or drowsiness can occur — symptoms of caffeine withdrawal.

"If I'm working, I usually drink about a pot (of coffee)," said Matt Kase (junior-labor industrial relations). "When I'm up at 7 a.m., it's just something I'm used to. I like the taste and the caffeine."

A 12-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains 275 mg of caffeine. A can of Coca-Cola has 45 milligrams of caffeine while Pepsi-Cola has 40 milligrams. One tablet of No-Doz contains 100 milligrams of caffeine. About 150 milligrams of caffeine makes some people nervous and jittery, and less than that can interfere with sleep.

"I have about one cup every morning. I have an acquired taste for it, and I guess the caffeine, too. Whether or not it works, I don't know, it could be a mental thing," said Matt Keeley (junior-economics).

Caffeine is known to stimulate the central nervous system. Moderate doses can enhance alertness, well being, energy, motivation and concentration. It also speeds up resting heart rate, enhances stomach acid, and increases urination.

Caffeine can be found in diet pills due to its ability to increase the rate at which energy is burned while the body is at rest. But this effect decreases with chronic use, making caffeine questionable as a long-term diet aid.

"Caffeine is a stimulant, it hypes you up. When students have a lot of caffeine, it's hard for their bodies to slow down and rest," Petroff said. "Everyone needs a certain amount of sleep, and students are notorious for not getting enough sleep."

Most adults need eight hours of sleep to function at their best. Sleep is as necessary to health as food and water and there is no substitute for sleep.

"Coffee is kind of an extra help-you-wake-up-thing. You don't feel like you're really awake until you've had your cup of coffee," Keeley said.

Many students agree with Keeley, justifying their caffeine consumption with the need for jolt to help wake up in the morning.

"I had to get up at 7 a.m. this morning, that's why I'm drinking it," said Mel Shilk (junior-forest science). "It's the buzz — I was tired. I don't really like the taste."

For some students, that morning cup of coffee has become a staple in their daily routine.

"Take a shower, grab a cup of coffee — you're ready to go," Keeley said.