Caffeine

In this post I’ll be talking about caffeine as a tool to further your workouts.

Caffeine is a psychoactive stimulant that is found in many plants worldwide such as the Cacao tree. As a socially acceptable drug, it has found its way into many food products such as soda, candy, ice cream, and chocolate. Its effects on a person start at, but are not limited to: stimulation of the nervous and cardiovascular systems, elevated mood, elevated energy, increased heart rate, increased metabolic rate, and increased respiratory rate (Nutrition and Well-being A-Z).

Many athletes (professional or not) use caffeine because it has been shown to increase speed, stamina, and performance in general (Clark). Since it speeds up your heart rate, it’s making you burn more calories per hour than normal, thus explaining the increased respiratory and metabolic rate. So not only will you be burning more calories per hour (for up to 3-4 hours depending on dosage), but you will also experience a psychological effect that may help keep you going past your normal burn out point. With that in mind, this may be just what you need to start burning off some calories as well as giving you an edge in the gym. For those considering using caffeine in an exercise program, it should be ingested in recommended dosages appropriate to your size about 30 minutes prior to a workout, but at least 3 – 4 hours before you plan to sleep.

Now as most of us know, caffeine is an addictive substance and therefore, care should be exercised when considering a diet regimen consisting of caffeinated supplements. It should also be noted that caffeine in doses of 500-600mg + have been shown to cause adverse effects such as: anxiety, depression, sweating, nausea, and insomnia (Mayo Clinic Staff). With regards to people with heart or health related issues, you should consult your doctor before the use of any such drug, including caffeine.

References

Clark, Nancy. RUNTHEPLANET. 2008. 6 December 2008 http://www.runtheplanet.com/trainingracing/nutrition/caffeine.asp.

Mayo Clinic Staff. MayoClinic.com. 6 December 2008. 6 December 2008 http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/caffeine/NU00600.

Nutrition and Well-being A-Z. 2008. 6 December 2008 http://www.faqs.org/nutrition/Ca-De/Caffeine.html.