Experts explain how coffee works: it doesn't give energy, it just tricks the brain.
For many people, a cup of coffee in the morning is synonymous with instant energy. However, neuroscience and nutrition specialists clarify that caffeine doesn't generate actual energy, but rather acts by altering the brain's perception of fatigue.
The body naturally produces a substance called adenosine, which accumulates during the day and causes the feeling of sleepiness. The caffeine in coffee temporarily blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, preventing fatigue signals from reaching the brain. This makes the person feel more awake and alert, but it does not mean that their body has received more energy.
READ: 5 foods that shouldn't be wrapped in aluminum foilExperts point out that coffee doesn't provide direct fuel to cells, as carbohydrates or fats do. Its effect is more of a trick: fatigue persists, but the brain doesn't perceive it with the same intensity. Once caffeine is metabolized, the accumulated adenosine is released and can cause an energy crash, which explains why some people feel more tired hours after drinking coffee.
Although coffee can improve concentration and short-term performance, caffeine abuse can cause adverse effects such as insomnia, nervousness, palpitations, and dependence. Experts recommend not exceeding 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, equivalent to about 3 or 4 cups of filtered coffee, depending on individual tolerance.
Alternatives to obtain real energyTo feel a genuine energy boost, experts suggest:
- Sleep between 7 and 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates and proteins.
- Hydrate properly.
- Perform regular physical activity to activate your metabolism.
Coffee can be an ally in staying alert, but it's no substitute for rest and good nutrition. Rather than generating energy, it simply blocks the signs of fatigue, giving us the illusion of being more active than we actually are.
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