Caffeine is also a common ingredient of soft drinks, such as cola, originally prepared from kola nuts. Soft drinks typically contain 0 to 55 milligrams of caffeine per 12 ounce (350mL) serving. [232] By contrast, energy drinks, such as Red Bull, can start at 80 milligrams of caffeine per serving. The caffeine in these drinks either originates from the ingredients used or is an additive derived from the product of decaffeination or from chemical synthesis. Guarana, a prime ingredient of energy drinks, contains large amounts of caffeine with small amounts of theobromine and theophylline in a naturally occurring slow-release excipient. [233] Other beverages At best, energy drinks can help you feel more awake, giving you a boost after consumption. However, feeling energised and feeling focused are two different things.

Caffeine, like other xanthines, also acts as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. [173] As a competitive nonselective phosphodiesterase inhibitor, [174] caffeine raises intracellular cyclic AMP, activates protein kinase A, inhibits TNF-alpha [175] [176] and leukotriene [177] synthesis, and reduces inflammation and innate immunity. [177] Caffeine also affects the cholinergic system where it is a moderate inhibitor of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. [178] [179] Pharmacokinetics Caffeine is metabolized in the liver via a single demethylation, resulting in three primary metabolites, paraxanthine (84%), theobromine (12%), and theophylline (4%), depending on which methyl group is removed. Urinary metabolites of caffeine in humans at 48 hours post-dose [180] http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/getting-pregnant/in-depth/female-fertility/art-20045887?pg=2 Another factor to consider when consuming energy drinks is that they tend to be high in sugar, which, similar to caffeine, is fine in moderation. To be mindful of this, however, we’ll also link to sugar-free versions of our favourite drinks where available. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

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At 32mg of caffeine per 100ml, Red Bull provides a reliable caffeine boost alongside taurine and B vitamins. While regular Red Bull tastes perfectly nice, this Red Edition watermelon variant has a tastier and more interesting fruity flavour. Also available are the Tropical Edition (tropical flavour), Coconut Edition (coconut-berry flavour) and Summer Edition (apricot-strawberry flavour). For those cutting down on sugar, you’ll be happy to know the tropical variant also has a sugar-free option available. This is especially important to watch out for if you tend to experience negative side effects when you consume caffeine.

Caffeine enhances athletic performance. For this reason, caffeinated chewing gums, along with other sources of caffeine, are on the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) banned substances list for athletes. Branum AM, et al. Trends in caffeine intake among US children and adolescents. Pediatrics. 2014; doi:10.1542/peds.2013-2877.Because manufacturers add caffeine to some foods and drinks to promote increased energy, alertness, and mood, you may be consuming more caffeine than you think ( 1, 2). This is why, for athletes, if you’re using it purely for performance-enhancing effects and you want to be very specific with it, I recommend taking caffeine in a pill form, because you can control your intake better. A detailed review suggests that although caffeine triggers certain brain chemicals similarly to the way cocaine and amphetamines do, it does not cause classic addiction the way these drugs do ( 30). USDA Food Data Central. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html. Accessed April 18, 2022.

In one study, 16 people who typically consumed high, moderate or no caffeine took part in a word test after going without caffeine overnight. Only high caffeine users showed a bias for caffeine-related words and had strong caffeine cravings ( 31). Skin protection. Consuming 4 or more cups of caffeinated coffee per day may lower the risk of skin cancer by 20% ( 46, 47). Caffeine was formerly used as a second-line treatment for ADHD. It is considered less effective than methylphenidate or amphetamine but more so than placebo for children with ADHD. [49] [50] Children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD are more likely to consume caffeine, perhaps as a form of self-medication. [50] [51] Enhancing performance Cognitive performance http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/expert-answers/blood-pressure/faq-20058543Does how you drink it make a difference? In short: yes. Darker roasts, as well as being lower in caffeine, tend to contain fewer antioxidants and lower levels of chlorogenic acid, a compound that can protect the body against inflammation and cell damage. When you grind the beans doesn’t matter (unless you prefer that fresh-ground flavour), but how much you grind them probably does – a finer grind releases more polyphenols, giving fine-ground brews slightly more beneficial effects. A study found that a second cup of coffee produced no further benefits unless it was consumed at least 8 hours after the first cup ( 9). However, this effect doesn’t seem to occur in everyone. Indeed, even some people with heart problems may be able to tolerate large amounts of caffeine without any adverse effects. Smoking tobacco increases caffeine clearance by 56%. [156] Cigarette smoking induces the cytochrome P450 1A2 enzyme that breaks down caffeine, which may lead to increased caffeine tolerance and coffee consumption for regular smokers. [157] Birth control

Energy drinks contain caffeine, as well as ingredients such as taurine and guarana (a natural source of caffeine). Energy drinks do not hydrate and should not be confused with sports drinks. Paraxanthine (84%): Increases lipolysis, leading to elevated glycerol and free fatty acid levels in blood plasma.

More Caffeine resources

Ruxton CHS. The suitability of caffeinated drinks for children: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials, observational studies and expert panel guidelines. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. 2014;27(4):342-57.