BodyFix PT and Performance is based in the Greater Seattle Area. Maybe because of this coffee, and caffeine, runs deep. Read on to learn about the health benefits of caffiene!
What is Caffeine?
First and foremost, caffeine is a drug. It is considered a stimulant. Caffeine can be found in tea, coffee, and the cacao plant. It has been brewed into various forms of beverages for over 4000 years (so it's been around for a while). It can help you stay awake and ward off tiredness.
How Does Caffeine Work?
Once ingested, caffeine is quickly absorbed by your gut and goes into your bloodstream. It then goes into the liver and can have effects on various organs. It's main effect, however, takes place in your brain!
In the brain, caffeine block a chemical receptor and helps you stay awake. It also can stimulate levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. The increase in these transmitters is what can make you feel jittery. It can also increase your energy.
The caffeine in one cup of coffee can start taking effect in 20 minutes and reach full effectiveness in 60 minutes.
Benefits of Caffeine
Caffeine has been touted to be beneficial. It helps with many of your daily bodily functions. Here are some of the things caffeine does:
Improve Mood
Increase Fat Burning
Improve Brain Function
Protect Against Diabetes
Boost Metabolism
Enhance Exercise Performance
Protect Against Heart Disease
Protect Liver
Decrease Chance of Premature Death
Decrease Cancer Risk
Reduced Risk of Multiple Sclerosis
Increase Gut Health
Side Effects of Caffeine
Like with many things, it is not all rosy.
Caffeine is considered safe overall, but the side effects may include headaches, anxiety, irregular heartbeat, or increase the chance of miscarriage.
Sources of Caffeine
There are many common, and uncommon ways to ingest your caffeine. Here are some natural ways to intake caffeine:
Coffee
Tea
Chocolate Milk
Soda
Espresso
Yerba Mate
Energy Drinks
If you think adjusting your intake of caffeine can be beneficial, play around with it. Try not to go cold turkey as you may feel withdrawal symptoms. Also don't increase your intake rapidly or you will be more likely to experience side effects.
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