Cafeine and results to the brain

Neurons in the brain produce adenosine, levels of which are monitored via receptors.

When adenosine levels reach a certain level your body naturally begins to feel tired and ready to sleep or relax. However, when caffeine comes along in the form of a standard 100mg 8 oz cup of coffee its chemical similarities to adenosine deactivates the receptors and allows the brain’s natural stimulants dopamine and glutamate to flow freely producing a false energy rush. The effects vary according to genetics, physiology and tolerance.

Although caffeine can seemingly enhance energy and work output, this usually only applies to work that doesn’t require much abstract thought. It can enhance adrenaline and memory, which is perhaps why students preparing for exams like caffeine, but not it seems creativity. Caffeine becomes habit forming as tolerance levels increase over time leading to a vicious circle of increased consumption to achieve the same effects.

In other words, to attain the same buzz it becomes necessary to consume more but this can sometimes only have the effect of increasing irritability.

Quitting can be painful with headaches and discomfort. A step by step reduction is recommended to let the brain ‘dry out’ over several days before any further cups of coffee, which should then achieve previous levels of mental and physical stimulation.