Written By: Julane R. Contursi, MS, RDN, LD
Let’s talk about caffeine
Caffeine, an often-criticized component that is consumed in many forms (and can be categorized into food, dietary supplement, or a drug), is most notably consumed in coffee throughout the world. Coffee contains several other biologically active phytonutrients such as antioxidants and has been theorized to enhance exercise performance.
Caffeine is not only in coffee and teas, but also in sodas, caffeinated waters, juices, energy drinks, sports drinks, sports bars and chocolate (food ingredient). It’s, also, in kola nuts, guarana, and some OTC stimulant supplements geared to athletes. A “performance candy” (Jolt Caffeine-Energy Gum or Buzz Bites) may be interpreted as sports supplements.
Because caffeine is legally classified as a drug with a therapeutic dose of 100-300 mg, many foods/beverages consumed meet those standards of a drug. For example, an 8 oz. cup of brewed coffee contains 80-135 mg; an 8 oz. can of energy drinks range 80-120 mg; and a 16-oz. cup of Starbucks coffee contains ~ 330 mg.
In the late 70’s research was conducted on the hypothesis that caffeine may have on endurance performance as an ergogenic (ability to enhance performance, stamina, or recovery) aid by increasing fat oxidation and sparing the use of muscle glycogen (carbohydrates stored in muscle). According to more recent research, there is little evidence to support this.
The effect that caffeine has on the below activities are summarized below:
Aerobic (endurance) exercise: Examples include running, bicycling, rowing, walking, swimming, dancing, kickboxing among others
- Delayed fatigue
- Decreased Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE)
- Increased neural activity
- Increased use of stored carbohydrates (glycogen) and dietary carbohydrates as a fuel source
Exercise that requires alertness: Examples include archery, golf, and tennis
- Increased alertness, reaction time, and focus (< 3 mg/kg body weight – higher doses could negatively affect these potential benefits)
Lower Body Muscular Endurance: Examples include squats, lunges, burpees, planks, box jumps, glute bridges; step ups
- Decreases muscle fatigue
- Increases ability to work out longer and/or increase weights, thereby increasing muscle mass
Anaerobic power: Examples include activities sustained 1-3 minutes; repetitive tasks; and intermittent anaerobic exercise done for a prolonged duration such as soccer, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and weightlifting.
- Decreases muscle fatigue
- Increases ability to work out longer and/or increase weights, thereby increasing muscle mass
In summary, caffeine is a stimulant drug that can affect a multitude of metabolic and psychological body processes that may affect performance, especially prolonged aerobic endurance activity. An effective dose is ~ 5 mg/kg body weight. Caffeine is regarded as a safe drug; however, abstinence or moderate use for some individuals may be indicated. “Moderate” consumption is ~1-2 cups of coffee daily.
Julane R. Contursi is registered dietitian at Harmony Nutrition in Alpharetta Georgia. To learn more, visit www.harmonynutritionatl.com.