Many people resort to a cup of coffee in the mornings to fully open their eyes. However, there may be misconceptions about the effects of coffee on alertness and its actual contribution to our energy levels. How exactly does the caffeine in coffee keep us awake? Here’s what you need to know.
Caffeine competes with adenosine, a naturally occurring compound in our brain that regulates our sleep. Adenosine is produced by our cells throughout the day as a result of energy consumption and when it reaches high levels, it increases our feeling of tiredness and encourages us to sleep. However, caffeine temporarily stops this molecule’s effect by binding to adenosine receptors itself. This situation makes us feel more awake and alert, but it does not mean that caffeine produces energy.
Indeed, while caffeine only increases alertness, it does not increase our energy production. Our energy level is directly related to the amount of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) produced by our body from nutrients such as carbohydrates and fats. Drinking coffee does not increase ATP production; it merely masks our existing feeling of tiredness, keeping us more alert.
The Effect of Alertness-Providing Caffeine and Conditions of Feeling Sleepy
As a result, the coffee you drink in the morning may make you feel more alert, but this does not mean it provides a new source of energy. Since caffeine only temporarily blocks the accumulation of adenosine, after the effect of caffeine wears off, adenosine levels return to normal and the feeling of tiredness can increase again. Therefore, if you want a real increase in energy, revising your lifestyle habits such as sufficient and quality sleep, balanced diet, and regular exercise might be more effective.
Source: Live Science