Overview

More than 80 percent of the adult population in the United States regularly consumes food products or supplements that contain caffeine, according to the "Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements." Consuming high amounts of caffeine may result in diuresis, or increased urination in some people. Since caffeine also has other health implications, talk to your doctor before taking stimulants or supplements that contain caffeine.

Caffeine as a Diuretic

A diuretic, meaning a substance that rids the body of fluids through the urine, may be beneficial or harmful, depending upon the physical condition of the person. A study, published in December 2003 in the "Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics," concluded that caffeine, in high doses could produce a short-term diuretic effect, but that effect is generally limited to people who do not regularly use caffeine. Once a person becomes accustomed to the level of caffeine, the diuretic effect wanes. Additional studies are necessary to confirm this effect.

Products that Contain Caffeine

Coffee makes up 80 percent of all caffeine consumed in the United States. Other sources for the substance are soft drinks, including colas and some non-colas, drinks, tea, energy drinks and chocolate. Stimulant supplements, some over-the-counter pain relievers and weight-loss aids may also contain caffeine.

Potential Benefits

Caffeine may increase urination if you don't consume it regularly, making it potentially beneficial for short-term water weight issues. There are more effective, and safer, ways to treat water retention, however, so talk to your doctor before using caffeine as a diuretic.

Considerations

A moderate caffeine intake is approximately 250 mg per day, or about three 8 oz. cups of coffee, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Consuming high amounts of caffeine can result in undesirable side effects, including rapid heart rate, frequent urination, nervousness, insomnia, tremors and depression. If you consume caffeine regularly, you may experience withdrawal effects if you give it up cold turkey. These may include nausea, vomiting, headache and irritability. See your doctor if you think you need a diuretic or if you experience too-frequent urination.