Caffeine is a natural stimulant most commonly found in coffee, tea, and certain plants. It primarily affects the central nervous system by blocking adenosine receptors, which helps reduce the feeling of fatigue and increase alertness. In sports and fitness contexts, caffeine is frequently used for its ability to improve focus, energy, and perceived exertion during physical activity.
Its ergogenic properties make it one of the most widely used performance-enhancing substances in sports. It may also assist with fat oxidation during endurance activities, making it a popular ingredient in pre-workout supplements and fat burners.
When consumed in appropriate doses, caffeine can enhance both aerobic and anaerobic performance, contributing to better training outcomes and improved reaction time.
Synonyms:
1,3,7-trimethylxanthine, Guaranine (from guarana), Theine (from tea).
Benefits:
- Increases alertness and mental focus
- Enhances endurance performance
- Reduces perception of fatigue
- Supports fat metabolism during exercise
- May improve reaction time and cognitive performance
Sources:
Found in coffee beans, tea leaves, guarana berries, yerba mate, and synthesized for use in supplements.
Observations:
Commonly found in pre-workout powders, fat burners, and energy drinks. Typical dosages in supplements range from 100 to 300 mg per serving. Excessive intake can lead to jitteriness, insomnia, increased heart rate, and gastrointestinal discomfort. May interact with other stimulants or medications affecting the heart or central nervous system.
Related Fields of Study:
Exercise Physiology, Sports Nutrition, Pharmacology, Neurobiology