Caffeine is a stimulant that impacts the brain (central nervous system) to stimulate the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, which increases alertness and attention. It can be found in a variety of plants, including cocoa, with the best-known source being the coffee bean. Caffeine is said to be the most widely consumed psychoactive drug on Planet Earth, being seen as socially acceptable in most cultures. Caffeine can cause a mild drug dependency that, when discontinued, is associated with several withdrawal symptoms—including sleepiness, headache, and irritability. The severity of these symptoms may relate to the regular amount of caffeine that an individual has used on a daily basis. Reportedly, pure powdered caffeine that is touted as a dietary supplement can be lethal in tablespoon-sized amounts. For at least the last decade, there have been anecdotal reports about caffeine, in moderate doses of about 5 mg per kg of body weight, being able to improve results in some types of athletic endeavors. You may have seen a news item about research in this area. More tomorrow.
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