Cafeïne

Caffeine is a common substance we encounter daily in coffee, tea, soft drinks, and other products. It’s known for its stimulating effect and is often used to combat fatigue.

But what does caffeine actually do in your body, and why is it important to use it wisely?

Caffeine makes you alert

Adenosine is a natural substance in your brain that accumulates throughout the day and is responsible for the feeling of fatigue. As adenosine builds up, you begin to feel drowsy. During sleep, adenosine is broken down, providing refreshment and recovery.

Caffeine works by temporarily blocking the effects of adenosine. When you consume caffeine, it reduces the effects of adenosine and gives you a feeling of alertness and energy. This is why coffee is often used to combat fatigue.

Does caffeine make me tired?

While caffeine can initially help you feel more alert, excessive use can lead to a rebound effect. The body always strives for balance, known as homeostasis. Regularly consuming large amounts of caffeine can cause an overproduction of adenosine in response. This can result in long-term fatigue.

Its half-life is approximately 6 hours, meaning its effects last a long time. For example, if you consume 300 mg of caffeine at 4:00 PM, there will still be approximately 150 mg of caffeine in your body at 10:00 PM. This can negatively impact your sleep and lead to long-term fatigue.

Pay attention to your timing for a good night’s sleep

To promote a good night’s sleep and prevent long-term fatigue, it’s important to manage your caffeine intake consciously. A general guideline is to avoid consuming caffeinated products until 2:00 PM. This gives your body enough time to break down the caffeine before bed.