Every morning, a being emerges from its den, a being that was once 22-year-old Jessica Hall. The entity is cranky, restless and can only communicate in low grunts. The remedy? A quick cafe con leche. Within thirty minutes Hall can resume contact with civilization using understandable speech patterns.

      "I feel more awake and I'm capable of making conversation as opposed to grunting 'Good morning,' like I do to my father," said Hall.

      According to the Mayo Clinic, nine out of ten Americans regularly rely on some form of caffeine for a quick energy boost. But what turns someone from caffeine connoisseur to full-blown addict?

      Caffeine, an organic substance contained in coffees, teas, carbonated beverages, chocolate and many medications is the most widely used drug in the world. When consumed, the body absorbs caffeine where it quickly stimulates the central nervous system; hence the sudden alertness that hits after slamming back a five-dollar frappuccino from Starbucks.

      While most researchers agree that the occasional cup or two of java won't be detrimental to one's health, the body experiencing caffeine withdrawal is a real possibility. Those who rely on caffeine for their daily energy boost can eventually become dependent where an abrupt halt of caffeine consumption can lead to effects such as headaches, irritability, drowsiness, and nausea.

      Caffeine addiction is a whole other realm of scientific study. The American Medical Association advises that temperance is key, claiming that "moderate tea or coffee drinkers probably have no concern for their health relative to their caffeine consumption provided other lifestyle habits (diet, alcohol consumption) are moderate as well."

      And what exactly is considered "moderate"? About 200-300 milligrams per day is a safe dosage, or roughly the amount of caffeine found in three eight-ounce cups of coffee.

      When guzzling the equivalent of more than ten cups o' joe a day, caffeine intake is excessive and can have adverse effects on the body-- increased heart rate, convulsions, muscle tremors and even death. Caffeine has also been linked to aggravating blood pressure and cyst conditions.

      Perhaps the most adverse effect of caffeine is the belief that it's the best method to energize your body for that late-night study session or during long hours at the office. Binging on Red Bull or popping a few No-Doz pills may increase alertness, but they won't necessarily improve performance.

      Something as simple as a good night's sleep can provide all the energy needed for a big day. In fact, afternoon caffeine indulgences may actually cause insomnia. It can take four to six hours for the body to rid itself of the caffeine found in a single cup of coffee. Other healthier alternatives to caffeine are a proper diet and exercise.

      A bit of mocha in the morning won't hurt, but being mindful of one's daily caffeine intake can prevent some nasty side effects. As for Hall, she's not giving up her coffee anytime soon. "I'd be a very crabby person [without it]," she said.