There are many natural and synthetic sources of caffeine. It is extracted from the fruit, bean, and leaves of different types of plants. Interestingly, the source of caffeine has no bearing on its potency. Caffeine from pills, tea, energy drinks, or coffee will offer the same benefits, milligram to milligram.
In our body, caffeine performs the function of adenosine, but in reverse. Adenosine mollifies the nervous systems and prevents it from getting out of control. Caffeine, by doing the opposite increases alertness, enhances energy, and improves concentration.
Both adenosine and caffeine vie for the same receptors, and caffeine always wins the battle. This makes caffeine a lot more powerful than the chemical adenosine. By acting on these receptors caffeine stimulates the brain and the nervous system.
Caffeine is also known to increase the circulation of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Caffeine’s influence on dopamine improves mood and increases concentration. Experts also claim that two cups of coffee every day can lessen the threat of colon cancer.
Caffeine Improves Alertness: Our eyes will be open, our bodies moving around the house, but every morning, our brain wakes up only after a cup of coffee. We drink coffee for its most important benefit it offers – alertness. Its benefit might be only short-term, but it’s the fuel that gets our mental engine started. Bear in mind that the second and third cup of Joe will not yield the same result as the first cup.
Caffeine’s Neuroprotective Properties: A study, done recently, has found that regular use of caffeine in the form of coffee protects the neurons and reduces the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Yes, the study established that four out of every five regular coffee drinkers were at a low risk of developing the serious ailment.
Caffeine and Memory Loss: Age-related memory loss that develops into dementia and Alzheimer’s has become a serious challenge to modern medicine. Scientists around the world are involved in multiple studies to find a solution to the problem. Some experts believe caffeine can help treat memory loss and other symptoms associated with age-related cognitive decline.
Caffeine and Mental Performance: Even the most brilliant mind will yield no success unless the mind is focused. Caffeine can help young adults to focus on the task at hand and fight distractions. Caffeine can improve mental performance of elderly people who undertake complex tasks.
Stacking Caffeine with L-Theanine: These two supplements form the dream pair that complement each other. L-theanine is generally taken to neutralize the negative effects of caffeine such as anxiety and restlessness.
Dosage: 50 – 200 mg per day (one or twice a day)
What Caffeine Does |
Stimulates the brain and the nervous system |
Mimics adenosine, but in reverse |
Influences the neurotransmitter dopamine |
Increases the circulation of dopamine |