Caffeine:
Drug of the Masses
By Kerry O’Brien. E-mail: kobrien@psy.otago.ac.nz
We consume literally millions of pounds of caffeine a year in the things we consume, but outside of the “pick me-up” effect, how much do we know about the worlds most widely used drug? Caffeine and its effects were first discovered in tea, and its use popularised by a Chinese emperor some 4000 years ago. Caffeine’s presence in coffee was discovered somewhat later (5-75AD) following the observation by African goat herders, that their animals were sprightlier after eating coffee beans. Caffeine’s abundance in tea and coffee is common knowledge, however its widespread use in other parts of our day to day diet goes almost unnoticed. For example Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Mellow Yellow, Red Bull and all chocolate products all contain substantial amounts of caffeine. Given its pervasive presence in our lives, it’s worth understanding from a general health perspective the positive and negative effects of caffeine.
Caffeine is considered a stimulant and has much the same effect on the body as cocaine, though obviously in a much-reduced capacity. Caffeine exerts its actions via the central nervous system (Brain & Spinal Cord), heart, lungs, kidneys, and arteries leading to the brain and heart.
Caffeine is absorbed quickly (30-60 minutes) and is generally active for 6 hrs after being consumed. If consumed before bedtime you may get to sleep, however the sleep will not be as deep as needed for complete rest.
Caffeine is widely used as a treatment for migraines. It does this by constricting the blood vessels leading to the brain, thus relieving the pressure within the brain that often leads to migraines.
It is possible to overdose and die using caffeine though this involves the consumption of caffeine equivalent to that contained in 100 cups (10grams) of coffee in one sitting. A pretty big ask for even the most ardent coffee lover.
Some of the general effects that can be observed following a strong cup of brewed coffee or two cups of tea (100-130mgs of caffeine), include: Improved feeling of well being, increased fat burning, alertness, less fatigue, greater capacity and speed of thoughts, increased reaction times and learning, increased heart rate, improved breathing and oxygen uptake, and a diuretic action (increased urination). Sounds pretty good doesn’t it? However, there are a number of side effects that can be exhibited at much higher doses (350mgs+ of caffeine). These include Insomnia, restlessness, shakes, and anxiety. The effects of caffeine obviously vary between individuals, with factors such as weight, age and food consumed playing a role.
Contrary to popular myth, caffeine will not sober up a drunken person, but will add to their hangover the next day through dehydration caused by the diuretic effect of caffeine.
A quick scan of the general effects of caffeine, in particular the improved alertness, fat burning, breathing and oxygen uptake, would suggests to many of you that caffeine may have an extremely positive role to play in our health and exercise routines, and you would be right in assuming such.
In the following articles on caffeine we will look at the doses that are contained in everyday foods we consume, and effective doses and application within the exercise/sporting environments, as well as medical. This will include some understanding of how caffeine works in the body to produce its effects, and should hopefully equip you with some personal knowledge that can guide you in its use.