5 AMAZING THINGS ABOUT CAFFEINE THAT YOU DIDN'T KNOW

5 AMAZING THINGS ABOUT CAFFEINE THAT YOU DIDN'T KNOW

By now, most everyone knows that caffeine is a stimulant. With more than half of Americans drinking coffee every day, it requires no introduction. Whether it’s the aroma of fresh brewed coffee, or if you prefer a cup of your local barista’s creation, we partake because it wakes us up. For others, they might prefer tea, energy drinks, or supplements to get their energy boost from caffeine. But what you didn’t know might surprise you. While moderation is generally the rule, here’s some food for your brain to chew on.

CAFFEINE IS MORE THAN JUST A STIMULANT

1. Caffeine Improves Workouts

This ties in directly with the energy boost logic. More energy = Better workout. But it doesn’t just increase your ability to do more reps, it also improves your manual dexterity. Who doesn’t want to lift more, more often, and not trip and fall on their way to the shower afterwards? It’s truly a win.

2. Caffeine Can Reduce Pain

Have you ever looked at the ingredients of pain killers from your local store? Many over-the-counter pain relief options combine aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen with caffeine. That’s because these elements work better together than alone. Whether it’s a headache, or cramping, this combination is a proven method to reduce pain.

3. Caffeine Lowers the Risk of Several Types of Cancer

Here’s one of the biggest surprises, cancer fighting caffeine. That’s right. Check out what The Journal of the National Cancer Institute had to say about skin cancer and caffeine. But wait, there’s more! Here’s what Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention had to say about caffeine and colon cancer. Need another one? How about the Epidemiology on oral cancer? Shocking to say the least. But also comforting in that most everyone takes caffeine in one way or another. So, it’s reassuring to know it’s doing more than just boosting our energy levels.

4. Caffeine Helps the Heart 

Studies have concluded that caffeine is connected to a reduced risk of both coronary artery disease, and stroke. What’s more, it doesn’t increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. Here’s what BMC Medicine had to say about that. This caffeine stuff is starting to look pretty good, isn’t it?

5. Caffeine May Help with Memory and Alzheimer’s

An observational study from Alzheimer’s & Dementia showed that a moderate amount of habitual consumption of caffeine in healthy older adults contributed to better time management, planning, organizing and general memory. Additional studies have suggested that caffeine could also be helpful in treating Alzheimer’s.

There are some compelling reasons for choosing caffeine or caffeine supplements as one of your primary energy boosters. Again, try to consume in moderate amounts for optimal results and to avoid any unwanted side effects.