On the eve of my 4th week without coffee, I thought I would give you the down-low on caffeine. Believe me I am a caffeine worshiper. In fact it is my life juice during school. That’s right, I cannot get through a day without my espresso in hand. This 4 week hiatus was just a test of self control, and to wean myself off before semester starts next week.
FACT: Caffeine is one of the most widely consumed drugs in the world
When you think of caffeine, a cup of coffee probably comes to mind. But caffeine is found in tea, cocoa, soft drinks, various foods and is common is over the counter medications. Why is caffeine so popular? It stimulates the central nervous system (brain, spindle cord), creating effects similar to many amphetamines, on a weaker scale. Now because of its effect on the CNS caffeine works its magic in many ways.
- elevated mood
- decreased fatigue
-delayed onset of tiredness
-faster response (decreased reaction time)
-increased concentration
-increased mental alertness
-enhanced release of Catecholamines (Adrenaline, Noradrenaline, Dopamine, etc.)
- increase free fatty acid mobilization
-increase use of triglycerides in muscle
Caffeine also has its benefits in sport. Costill, Ivy and colleagues found that caffeine increased endurance time in fixed pace work bouts and decreased times in fixed distance races in competitive cyclists. But how? Through many academic studies, caffeine has been documented to lower the perception of effort a given rate of work, allowing the athlete to perform at a higher intensity with the same effort perceived! How great is that. Work harder, but think it’s easier!
Sounds great so far, right? Caffeine though also has some negative effects as well. If you are not used to caffeine, then there is a hypersensitivity to it. Also in large dosages negative effects can occur. These include nervousness restlessness, insomnia, headache, GI problems, and even tremors. Some people even notice that caffeine can act as a diuretic, which when combined with exercise will increase risks of dehydration. Drinking caffeine to stay awake? This can have reverse effects as well, by disrupting sleep patterns and increasing fatigue. Take it from me, caffeine is also very addictive. When discontinuing the use of caffeine headaches, fatigue and irritability can occur (not that I know or anything).
So now that I have given you all that I know on caffeine you can make your own decision about whether to stop at Starbucks or not. I know come Tuesday, my venti 6 pump sugar free caramel extra shot Americano will be back in hand!
