Caffeines Effects on Metabolism

Caffeine increases the mobilization of free fatty acids in the blood, which are used for prolonged energy requirements as in marathon running. Caffeine has also been shown to decrease fatigue during low to moderate intensity exercise lasting over 2 hours. However, caffeine is a central nervous system and cardiovascular stimulant thereby increasing the basal metabolic rate, heart rate and blood pressure. Rapid heart rate can occur leading to an unusually high heart rate during exercise. However, after approximately 45 minutes from caffeine ingestion, Bradycardia occurs, or a slowing of the heart rate, and lasts for up to an hour thereby decreasing cardiac output. Bradycardia leads to fatigue and an inability to exercise. Longterm effects decrease as the body adjusts to the caffeine intake level. Caffeine is a diuretic and therefore may promote dehydration due to increased urination. Any level of dehydration can decrease energy levels up to 30%.

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