Today is

By: Ikedi Ani-okoye.

What is caffeine?

Caffeine is a bitter-tasting chemical substance that possesses the qualities of a mild stimulant. It acts directly on the central nervous system and skeletal muscles. As such, it can increase heart rate, blood circulation, urine output and gastric secretions. It may also cause a decrease glucose metabolism. Most commonly associated with coffee and tea, caffeine is also found in numerous plants.

1 ls caffeine addictive?

Yes, but the effects are much milder tilan those of other drugs. Caffeine increases the body's levels of dopamine (a pleasure-enhancing neurotransmitter).

2. Will caffeine make you smarter?

No, caffeine affects memory retention - not acquisition or ability' to process information.

3, Does caffeine provide energy's

No. Caffeine is a chemical, not a macro nutrient. However, it acts as a mild stimulant and thus may cause an individual to perceive less fatigue .

4, Does combine improve memory?

Yes and no. Caffeine intensifies the level of brain activity, which can result in faster reaction times and better short-term memory (by increasing acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that improves short term memory) but not long-term memory.

5. Does Decaffeinated coffee hove any caffeine in?

Yes, decaf can still contain up to 3% caffeine.

6. Can I become immune to caffeine?

Yes. The effects of caffeine are often Inorc pronounced in nonusers than regular caffeine users.

7. Is caffeine associated with heart disease and/or high blood pressure?

Possibly. Any evidence associating caffeine with coronary heart disease is verst weak, as is research showing a link between caffeine and higll blood pressure, but conclusions are mixed.

8. Is it safe to drink coffeinated drinks during pregnancy?

In moderation. Most health and wellbeing experts would recommend no more than two cups of coffee per day, and advise cutting lt out completely, if possible.

9. Will caffeine consumption contribute to breast cancer?

No. Caffeine itself does not trigger the development of breast cancer.

10. Is caffeine a risk for Osteoporoses?

No. Most studies have shown that caffeine intake is not a risk factor for osteoporosis, particularly in women who consume sufficient calcium .

I l. Can caffeine help with endurance exercise?

The evidence does suggest that caffeine intake can improve endurance performance, However, I believe that this is mainly for serious athletes and should not be attempted without the guidance of a qualified professional.

12. Does caffeine help with weight loss?

Some evidence exists for the use of caffeine in body fat loss However, the average gym enthusiast would be better off concentrating on regular Aerobic exercise, resistance training. and basic nutritional strategies to address weight loss -her example energy balance.

Jon Denoris MSc international fitness educator Contact him by jondenoris@myonlinetrainer.com