I've been experimenting with caffeine on and off for the past few weeks. TBH My opinion keeps changing.
I did do some research and found these quotes interesting. Just wondering what others think about caffeine. Granted it does provide a host of benefits for exercise, the after effects I question
Im mostly concerned with appetite regulation and cognitive stability and performance.
Caffeine Debates
• Gilman says, "Caffeine, along with many other things, depletes serotonin. Side effects of low serotonin are numerous, ranging from carbohydrate cravings, binge eating, obesity, to anxiety, ADD, depression, alcoholism and suicidal behavior – not forgetting, insomnia, PMS, migraines, increased risks for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and certain cancers. Shockingly, no one in the media is talking about this clinically proven research, research that has the potential to help millions live healthier. And though I’m thrilled to hear CA is considering labeling caffeine as a toxic substance, the awareness needs to go far beyond that."
• Serotonin is : The remainder is synthesized inserotonergic neurons in the CNS where it has various functions. These include the regulation of mood, appetite, sleep, as well as muscle contraction. Serotonin also has some cognitive functions, including in memory and learning
• Increases Cortisol levels: Cortisol is the stress hormone, which signals the body to increase the energy stores. Increased cortisol levels can lead to hunger cravings. Caffeine intake increases the cortisol levels, thereby, increasing the appetite and making the individual eat more. This may lead to weight gain in the long term.Induces Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia is a condition where the body has low blood sugar levels, and the body does not have enough energy to carry out activities. When hypoglycemia occurs, you would be more hungry to maintain the energy levels. Caffeine can lead to hypoglycemia, and you may find yourself eating more food to keep the energy levels up
• RESULTS—At baseline, caffeine ingestion was associated with a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in insulin sensitivity by a similar magnitude in the lean (33%), obese (33%), and type 2 diabetic (37%) groups in comparison with placebo. After exercise training, caffeine ingestion was still associated with a reduction (P < 0.05) in insulin sensitivity by a similar magnitude in the lean (23%), obese (26%), and type 2 diabetic (36%) groups in comparison with placebo. Exercise was not associated with a significant increase in insulin sensitivity in either the caffeine or placebo trials, independent of group (P > 0.10).
• CONCLUSIONS—Caffeine consumption is associated with a substantial reduction in insulin-mediated glucose uptake independent of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic exercise.
•
Granted small amounts of caffeine won't produce a host of side effects however the most of the people I know consume well over 300mg a day.
Edited by christianbber, 05 November 2010 - 01:00 AM.
