A key component of our daily lives, caffeine has a significant impact on several of our essential systems.
Caffeine and the nervous system
Known primarily for its stimulant effects, caffeine acts on our nervous system in several ways. In the short term, it reduces the feeling of fatigue and sleepiness, while increasing our attention and energy . However, it is important to note that these effects are only temporary and fade over time.
More specifically, caffeine impacts brain cells , which can facilitate learning and improve memory, according to Inserm. In fact, caffeine consumption has been associated with optimized performance of simple cognitive tasks and physical tasks requiring endurance.
However, like any stimulant, caffeine should be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects such as restlessness , nervousness , and even affect sleep quality , leading to difficulty falling asleep. Therefore, it is recommended to balance caffeine consumption to enjoy its benefits while avoiding its potential negative effects.
It is also interesting to note that caffeine can have different effects on different individuals. For example, according to the book "The World of Caffeine The Science and Culture of the World's Most Popular Drug", a Japanese non-smoker who consumes his caffeine with alcohol could feel the effects of caffeine five times longer than an English woman smoker who has not drunk alcohol and is not taking the pill.
Caffeine and the Cardiovascular System
As a stimulant, caffeine causes a temporary increase in heart rate, increasing our energy and alertness.
Light coffee consumption has been shown to reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 17% and the risk of stroke by 21%, according to Passeport Santé .
However, it is important to keep in mind that these beneficial effects can be accompanied by risks if caffeine consumption becomes excessive. Prolonged and heavy caffeine consumption can increase the risk of osteoporosis, irregular heartbeat, and increased cholesterol levels .
It is therefore crucial to pay attention to our doses and the time of consumption of caffeine. It is recommended to limit its consumption to a few cups per day and to avoid drinking it just before bedtime so as not to disturb sleep.
Caffeine and Metabolism: A Weight Loss Incentive
The effect of caffeine on metabolism is quite significant. When absorbed into the body, caffeine acts as a stimulant , inducing a series of chemical reactions in the body. This results in a temporary increase in basal metabolic rate, which is the rate at which your body burns calories while at rest. Therefore, caffeine can help speed up weight loss .
The way caffeine boosts metabolism has to do with its effect on lipolysis , which is the process of breaking down fat in the body. Caffeine facilitates lipolysis by increasing the production of specific enzymes that break down fat. This increase in lipolysis can lead to a decrease in body weight and body fat percentage.
However, while recognizing the effects of caffeine on weight loss, it is essential to take a balanced approach. Too much caffeine can cause insomnia, restlessness, heart palpitations, and other side effects. Additionally, caffeine can have a diuretic effect, meaning it can cause you to lose water weight instead of fat. So while caffeine can help with weight loss, its use should be moderate and accompanied by a balanced diet and regular exercise .
It is also important to note that caffeine is not only found in coffee . Certain foods such as chocolate and some medications are also sources of caffeine .
