Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world. Caffeine, an active ingredient in coffee is a type of stimulant that promotes wakefulness and enhances alertness.
The onset of sleepiness is caused by the gradual decline of nerve cell activity. This is caused by[ihc-hide-content ihc_mb_type=”show” ihc_mb_who=”2,3,5″ ihc_mb_template=”1″ ] the binding of a neurotransmitter called adenosine to the adenosine receptors in the brain. Adenosine is produced by the degradation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule that acts as the “energy currency” for the body’s various cellular functions. Elevation in adenosine levels signals a shift toward sleep.
Caffeine is similar to adenosine in terms of molecular structure. It binds to the adenosine receptors and inhibits adenosine molecules from binding. Consequently, caffeine adversely prevents you from feeling sleepy.
Moreover, the inhibition of adenosine molecules causes elevation in activity of neurons in your brain. The pituitary gland, a gland that controls other hormone glands views this as a type of emergency. It then releases hormones that stimulate the production of adrenaline, a neuro-transmitter that alters your levels of energy and alertness.
Adrenaline elevates your heart rate and that results in more blood pumped per minute. This blood carries extra oxygen to your brain, making you feel more alert.
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