Effect of Caffeine On Cognitive Functions 1
Effect of Caffeine On Cognitive Functions 1
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EFFECT OF CAFFEINE ON COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS 2
Caffeine is a compound naturally present in plants, and in various food and drinks sold in
the market. Coffee and tea are among the most consumed caffeine-containing drinks, with the
former being a higher source of caffeine. Usually consumed by the working class and students,
caffeine is popular during times where there should be work. As it is a stimulant, there is
First, coffee is considered as a mild stimulant to the central nervous system. Stimulants
heighten the senses and improves various senses and actions. It is general knowledge that people
seek coffee when they want to wake themselves up. With this boost of energy comes added time
to be able to perform cognitive functions (O'Callaghan et al., 2018). As caffeine does give an
energy boost, it is very beneficial for people who work overnights or graveyard shifts, such as
security guards and doctors on call at hospitals. Whenever there is a late meeting or study
session, or an early morning call time, there is assurance that someone will reach for a cup of
coffee to keep them awake. This not limited to coffee and tea, which are the most widely
consumed caffeine-loaded beverages, as carbonated drinks and energy drinks also have this
Second is the presence of studies which propose that chronic consumption of coffee can
lead to lower risks of having neurogenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s (Eskelinen, Ngandu,
Tuomilehto, Soininen, & Kivipelto, 2009). In such trials, coffee consumption was shown to
diminish memory gaps in subjects. This being said, coffee improves memory, which is a big
component in learning and problem solving, two cognitive functions, This may very well be the
reason that a lot of people in the corporate and academe give into such predilection of coffee
over other drinks. Enhanced cognitive function is very profitable, especially in their line of work.
EFFECT OF CAFFEINE ON COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS 3
Most students consume coffee during studying because of the high numbers of students who
Lastly, is that caffeine shortens and improves reaction time. It has been stated earlier that
caffeine is a stimulant and heightens senses (O'Callaghan et al., 2018). The effect of shortened
reaction time is good in sports, that is why caffeine is on the hit list of Olympic drug tests for
athletes. Consumption of caffeine is not allowed for anyone who will be competing in the
Olympics as it makes all senses sharper while under the influence. High caffeine intake triggers
the fight or flight response of the body and conserves its resources in order to sense and escape
from possible threats. Telltale signs of increased caffeine consumption include a faster heart rate
and cold sweat. It should be noted that caffeine should only be taken in moderation since there
are negative effects when taken during pregnancy, and consistent intake may also lead to
dependence and later on, addiction. Despite coffee being linked to greater performance and
greater wake time, excessive consumption has its number one drawback which is sleep
In conclusion, there are multiple reasons as to confirm that caffeine is indeed a cognitive
enhancer. The consumption of caffeine, has been proven to boost energy, lower the risk of
developing neurodegenerative diseases, improve memory, and shorten reaction time. All these
affirm that caffeine is good for cognitive function. Which is a probable reason for caffeine’s
popularity among students and those who work long hours. Despite the enhancing effects that
caffeine has on cognitive function, it is important to note that everything is good in moderation.
EFFECT OF CAFFEINE ON COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS 4
References
coffee and tea drinking and the risk of late-life dementia: A population-based CAIDE
O’Callaghan, F., Muurlink, O., & Reid, N. (2018). Effects of caffeine on sleep quality and
daytime functioning. Risk Management and Healthcare Policy, Volume 11, 263-271.
https://doi.org/10.2147/rmhp.s156404