RESEARCH
HOW CAFFEINE WORKS
Caffeine is known as an antagonist, which means it acts within the body to reduce the physiological activity of another chemical substance. Due to its structural similarities to adenosine, it binds to adenosine receptors which triggers certain effects in the body. By blocking the A1 receptor, we become more alert and awake. By blocking the A2A receptor, our dopamine levels increase and enhances our mood.
GENERAL BENEFITS
The most common benefit that caffeine offers is that it enhances cognition. Because of the increase in adrenaline and dopamine levels, caffeine can benefit one's mood and focus. It can also increase one's power output and increase their strength temporarily. By consuming caffeine alongside carbohydrates, the rate of glycogen replenishment is improved. Another benefit is that it can help burn fat. Caffeine increases heat production and causes triglycerides to release fatty acids (the body can use these for fuel).
NEGATIVE EFFECTS
Consuming too much caffeine can lead to anxiety and nervousness. A scientific study conducted on 25 healthy men found that those who ingested 300 mg of caffeine experienced more than double the stress of those who took the placebo. Taking too much caffeine can also make it difficult to get enough restorative sleep (insomnia). Even if you consume caffeine later in the day, it may still affect your sleep because its effects can take several hours to wear off. Caffeine also has a laxative effect, meaning it releases gastrin (a hormone produced in the stomach to speed up activity in the colon). Large doses of caffeine may lead to loose stools or diarrhea. Increased urination is also a common side effect because of the stimulatory effects on the bladder.
SIDE EFFECTS FOR TEENS
Although teenagers experience the same effects as adults when consuming caffeine, they tend to experience more than twice the intensity because of their lower body weight. Studies have shown that teens are more susceptible to addiction and stress, and caffeine consumption can lead to dependence. Research also shows that drinking caffeine from a young age can stunt brain development. The teenage years are a vital time for brain development, and the brain has the most neural connections in these years. Caffeine makes these growing connections less efficient and even stops them from forming because of the lack of sleep teenagers receive. Consuming too much caffeine can also lead to bone loss over time. Caffeine can cause the bones to lose calcium, and by drinking energy drinks/soda instead of milk, there is an increase in a teen's risk of developing osteoporosis (a disease where your bones get weaker with your age). Overall, caffeine has more of a negative effect than a positive effect on teenagers.
RAISING AWARENESS
Research has shown that although many teenagers know about the negative effects of caffeine, they are unsure about the content of teas and soft drinks. By educating teenagers on potential health risks and side effects, you can lower their caffeine intake. You can also offer alternatives for boosting energy, such as maintaining a good diet, exercising, and getting enough sleep, which can help lower someone's caffeine intake.​