Caffeine - The World’s most popular drug? Most people would be astonished to discover how much caffeine is in their everyday food.  Caffeine may be found in tea, some soft drinks and even in chocolate; but for most of us the main source of caffeine is the daily dose of coffee. Research has shown that the average person consumes about two cups of coffee a day, giving a caffeine intake of 200mg.  Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, giving a temporary buzz of energy that many use when working or trying to concentrate on tasks.  Unfortunately, it has other effects on the body, decreasing long-term energy levels, and increasing heart rate and respiration. In some individuals, two cups of coffee a day can produce restlessness, nausea, headache and an irregular heartbeat.  Difficulty getting off to sleep and unsettled or disturbed sleep are common when drinking coffee in the evenings. Many people are aware that consuming too much coffee may be detrimental to various aspects of their health.  As a result of this, there has been a switch to decaffeinated drinks in recent years.  However, the chemical solvents typically used to remove caffeine may pose their own specific problems and many wish to avoid foods treated with such chemicals. It is far better to avoid caffeine-containing substances completely and go for caffeine-free alternatives.  Bambu is the choice of many ex-coffee addicts!  It is a cereal drink, made from figs, wheat, barley, chicory and acorns.  None of these ingredients contain caffeine, but the combination produces a beverage which is as close to coffee as is possible to achieve. Bambu can be made into a hot drink with cow’s milk or soya milk, and honey can be added for those with a sweet tooth. For many years Bambu has been popular on the continent – where they know how coffee should taste.  It regularly comes top in taste tests of coffee alternatives.