Although the possession and sale of many drugs is restricted, American society is tolerant of one particular substance, caffeine. Caffeine is used as an ingredient in beverages, foods and nutritional supplements because it's inexpensive and has certain benefits. In addition to its most notable effect, increasing energy, caffeine provides other distinct benefits. While caffeine can be beneficial in some ways, too much can have adverse effects. Consult your doctor about the right amount for you.
Increased Energy Expenditure
In addition to increasing the amount of energy you feel you have, caffeine can increase the amount of energy you expend, according to October 2010 research from the journal "Nutrition." Expending energy equates to burning calories, so consuming caffeine may help you lose weight, as long as your energy expenditure outpaces the energy you take in through food and drink.
Increased Testosterone Production
In addition to affecting how you feel, caffeine can affect how your body acts. Caffeine can alter the way your hormones react to exercise. According to research published in the April 2008 edition of "International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism," consuming caffeine prior to weightlifting can increase the amount of testosterone normally produced by such training. Testosterone is a powerful hormone that can promote muscle gain and fat loss.
Improved Mental Performance
Caffeine is often used to increase physical performance, thanks to its tendency to increase feelings of energy, and it may also help improve your mental performance. Research from the September 2002 edition of "Food and Chemical Toxicology" indicates that caffeine can encourage "better mental functioning," while the research from the journal "Nutrition" indicates that caffeine decreases mental fatigue and improves focus and concentration.
Concerns
While caffeine offers a number of benefits for both physical and mental performance, it can also have potential drawbacks. Caffeine may induce nausea, irritability and dizziness. If you consume too much caffeine, you may also have difficulty sleeping, and experience anxiety, diarrhea, vomiting or allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing or swelling. Seek medical attention if you experience these effects after caffeine consumption.
References
- "Nutrition"; Caffeine -- Not Just a Stimulant; M.J. Glade; October 2010
- "International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism"; Dose Effect of Caffeine on Testosterone and Cortisol Responses to Resistance Exercise; C.M. Beaven, et al.; April 2008
- "The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism"; Testosterone and Growth Hormone Improve Body Composition and Muscle Performance in Older Men; F.R. Sattler, et al.; June 2009
- "Food and Chemical Toxicology"; Effects of Caffeine on Human Behavior; A. Smith; September 2002
- Drugs.com: Caffeine Side Effects
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