Jack E James traces how caffeine consumption evolved as well as how caffeine is absorbed, distributed and metabolized in our bodies. He then discusses the effects of caffeine on: psychomotor and cognitive performance; psychological well-being; blood pressure and cardiovascular health; carcinogenic potentials; pregnancy and perinatal health; athletic performance; and diagnostic and therapeutic applications. The book concludes with an examination of the issue of whether or not caffeine is a drug of abuse, and whether or not there is a safe level of caffeine consumption.