So then, coffee addiction, is it in the genes?

The argument raging between nature and nurture isn’t one that is likely to be settled any time soon but there are a few studies floating around that backs up nature in the caffeine addiction section.

If you are constantly thwarted in your attempts to cut your caffeine intake, then alas, will power may not be enough – caffeine addiction, it may be soon proved, is in the genes.

A recent study written up by author Dr Neil Caporaso of the National Cancer Institute in Maryland, (the findings have been published in the PLoS Genetics’ journal) reports on the results of scanning genetic variations in over 40,000 individuals to search for links with high caffeine intake.

They found two stretches of DNA associated with high intake of tea, coffee, chocolate, soft drinks and other caffeine sources.

The two stretches of DNA linked with high caffeine consumption contain two genes thought highly likely to be involved in the way the body processes caffeine.

One — CYP1A2 — has previously been shown to be involved in the body’s break down of caffeine.

The second –AHR — helps regulate the first gene.

Scientists say this new study adds weight to a growing body of evidence that caffeine is a psychoactive drug, which means it has a huge effect and is affected by the mind.