Caffeine – an ally of sleep?

What is caffeine?

Caffeine is an organic psychoactive agent that belongs to the purine alkaloids. In addition, caffeine is methylxanthine, i.e. one of the methyl derivatives of xanthine. Caffeine is used as a substance that stimulates the nervous system and reduces fatigue and improves mood.

How does caffeine work?

Caffeine has a stimulating effect and increases the physical capacity of the body. In addition, caffeine may prevent dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The less popular effects of caffeine use also include an increase in the product of urine and gastric juice, as well as a decrease in smooth muscle tone.

How does caffeine affect the body?

Caffeine affects the body through dimethylxanthines, to which it is converted in the liver. Therefore, it affects the increase in the concentration of free fatty acids and glycerol in the blood. In addition, it dilates blood vessels and increases the volume of urine. To a small extent, caffeine has a relaxing effect on the bronchi.

How does caffeine affect sleep?

Caffeine consumed more than 6 hours before bedtime should not affect sleep. Consumption of caffeine in a shorter time than falling asleep causes a change in the structure of sleep, which most often results in fatigue in the morning, as well as difficulties in falling asleep the next evening.

Does caffeine help you stay awake?

Yes. Caffeine has a stimulating effect and helps you stay awake. At the same time, caffeine does not stimulate cognitive functions. This means that although we may not fall asleep after consuming caffeine, our attention, memory and perception will not improve significantly. Both cognitive control and executive functions will remain impaired with sleep deprivation.