Coffee, the most consumed product on the planet. When that morning cup of coffee hits me in the morning it seems like I’m ready to tackle the day. What is it about that cup of joe that just seems to be the key to start the engine off our morning? Most people view coffee (caffeine) as a necessary part of our routine and without it everything seems off. I want to dispel some myths about caffeine and how it works and just how much we should be taking in a day.
Caffeine is a stimulant, which means it increases activity in your brain and nervous system. It also increases the circulation of chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline in the body. Caffeine is well absorbed by the body and typically within 5-15 minutes you can start feeling the effects. Most research will show that up to 400mg of caffeine daily is sufficient for us and anymore can lead to the jitters, dehydration, headaches, and anxiety.
What most people don’t know is that caffeine isn’t giving you energy but tricking the mind into thinking that it isn’t tired by blocking the receptors from adenosine, a hormone that causes sleepiness. This is one of the main reasons we experience the 2 PM drop in energy. Now I’m not here to advocate against the morning coffee but understanding what it does will help us understand why our bodies are crashing in the early afternoon. That morning cup just might be a crucial part of your day but let’s be careful with just how much we are taking in so we can avoid the harmful side effects.
Until next time!
Written by Cody Perez – Performance Specialist
Infinity Sports Institute
163 NE 24th St Miami, FL 33137
- Monday
- 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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