Thursday, May 2, 2013

Effects of Caffeine, the good and the bad....


Effects of Caffeine


Caffeine is a stimulant. It is said to increase stamina while decreasing muscle fatigue. Caffeine is “glycogen sparing” which means the body will use its fat stores as energy which in turn reduces the rate at which glycogen is burned. By slowing the rate at which glycogen is burned it also reduces the production of lactic acid in the muscles. Lactic acid build up may cause a painful discomfort in the muscle during intense exercise. Although the pain is temporary it is quite annoying during a workout. If you experience that lactic acid burn you can also supplement with Beta Alanine which is a lactic acid buffer. Try Cardio Igniter, Pre WOD or Over Ride to name a few.

Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system. Because of that, when you are lifting or doing any type of explosive exercise your muscles will have a stronger contraction which will enable you to lift heavier or explode with more intensity. 

There is a difference between the caffeine in coffee or energy drinks and pure caffeine (caffeine pills). Pure caffeine is said to improve performance better than coffee. Pure caffeine also causes a greater release of fatty acids which are used as energy causing a greater loss of fat. Coffee and energy drinks have the same effect but lesser than that of pure caffeine. Try Met-Rx’s Caffeine. It has 200mg of caffeine. It is a time release capsule that promotes energy for your workout and sustained energy over an 8 hour period.
Keep in mind that there are side effects. Caffeine is a diuretic so you may feel the need to urinate more often than usual. It may cause jitters, anxiety, increase blood pressure and you may have trouble sleeping. Other side effects include headache, nausea and upset stomach.
Caffeine used in moderation is ok but should not be abused. If too much caffeine is used too often the effects of it decrease. Studies show that 300mg per day is safe. Other studies show that about 30 - 60 minutes before a high intensity workout 3 to 6 milligrams per kilogram of body weight of caffeine is recommended for optimal performance and fat burning.

Feel free to stop by the store and pick up samples of TSN Cardio Igniter, Cellucor C4 and other great products which all contain caffeine.

Have a Healthy Day,
Seth Cairns

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