Caffeine: Drug of the Masses,

Part 2

By Kerry O’Brien. E-mail: kobrien@psy.otago.ac.nz

In part one of this article on caffeine we looked at some general effects, both positive and negative, of caffeine consumption. In part 2 we will examine how caffeine acts in the body to brings about some of its positive actions, and how caffeine can be an advantage in both our exercise routines and for our general health.

Caffeine and Fat Burning.

Recent research looking at ways to treat overweight individuals has found that consumption of as little as 100mgs of caffeine (1 cup of brewed coffee) can increase the amount of calories burnt by anywhere from 4-6%. Furthermore, and perhaps more importantly, body fat is the source of calories being burnt following consumption of caffeine.

Caffeine’s fat burning potential is caused by the increased release of adrenaline following moderate levels of caffeine consumption. Adrenaline then brings about release of fatty acids from fat deposits and muscle into the blood stream where they are used as energy.

Caffeine’s effect on fat burning has a pleasant side effect in that it provides the body with a ready supply of energy for exercise. Studies have shown that this is of major benefit for endurance events or long exercise sessions (45mins+). This is perhaps why the International Olympic Committee bans high levels of caffeine in athletes.

Caffeine is best consumed 3 hrs before exercise and at a dose of around 200-300mgs (2-3 cups of brewed coffee). This allows the body time to free up fat for energy.

Caffeine and General Health Benefits.

Aside from the improvement in mood and increased alertness following caffeine consumption, there are a number of important general health benefits to be had from caffeine.

In a recent study conducted in Honolulu found that high-levels of “caffeine consumption was associated with a decreased risk for Parkinson’s disease”. It was suggested that caffeine’s stimulant effect might improve the functioning of cells in the brain that degenerate in Parkinson’s disease.

Head colds and asthma can both benefit from the use of caffeine. Caffeine opens up our bronchial tubes (breathing passages) allowing us to breath more freely. Many pharmacy cold formulas contain caffeine, which also reduces drowsiness caused by the antihistamines. Caffeine’s also sometimes used with premature babies to improve their oxygen uptake.

Caffeine in combination with aspirin has been found to significantly better for pain relief than aspirin alone. So have a cup of coffee with that aspirin next time.

Caffeine in Foods                    Caffeine Content

Coffee brewed (1cup)             80-140mgs

Tea (1cup)                              60-90mgs

Coke/Pepsi (can)                     50mgs

Mountain Dew (can)              55-60mgs

Jolt (bottle)                             72mgs

Milk Chocolate (1oz)             1-15mgs                     

Baking Chocolate (1oz)          25-30mgs

Sweet Chocolate (1oz)            5-35mgs

Although it is the most consumed drug in the world, few people realise the diverse effects, both positive and negative that caffeine has on our bodies. Hopefully you can now make decisions as to whether you wish to use caffeine in everyday life.

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