Studying all night? Low on sleep? Driving long distances? Maybe one of these leaves you in search of extra energy!  Are coffee or energy drinks the energy solution? Read the following to find out:

Energy for your body is measured in terms of calories. 

The energy your body needs to workout, study, work, hang out with your friends (or any other activities) comes from the food you eat. The calories in food are actually a measure of energy provided by food. Hence, to have enough energy to accomplish your activities, you need enough food.

Caffeine does not provide calories. 

Caffeine by itself does not provide any calories. And so, it does not provide energy to contract your muscles or fuel your brain.

Caffeine reduces the perception of fatigue. 

Caffeine has an effect on your nervous system by reducing your perception of fatigue. You feel less tired but you don’t have more “energy”.

The action time of caffeine is limited. 

The effect of caffeine on your brain (unfortunately!) doesn’t last forever. A few hours after ingestion, you likely will experience a period of fatigue. The effect of suppression of your perception of fatigue by your brain ended. You might even feel more tired than you were before taking caffeine.

Taking too much caffeine can lead to more tiredness. 

If you consume too much caffeine, you might not be able to sleep when it is time. Insomnia leads to more fatigue, which can lead to a rise in the caffeine consumption the next day and so on… (You can easily figure out the vicious cycle!)

So remember, caffeine doesn’t give you energy but rather suppresses your perception of fatigue. An overconsumption can be harmful for your energy levels and as a central nervous system stimulant, too much caffeine can make concentration more difficult.  Healthy professionals recommend moderation. What is moderation? Drinking 8-oz of coffee 2 to 3 times a day is considered moderate. However, you need to be aware of the caffeine content of other food as well. If you also drink energy drinks, eat chocolate or drink tea and soda, you potentially exceed what is considered moderate!

In conclusion, to have energy, moderate your intake of caffeine; eat well (this website is an amazing resource for that!); and make sure to recover by sleeping 7-8 hours per night.

Another myth debunked!