Caffeine & Supplements Effects
Pre-workout supplement and creatine
What is caffeine? Believe it or not, caffeine is a drug. It’s a CNS (central nervous system) stimulant of the methylxanthine class. About 90% of adults consume caffeine regularly. This is because the caffeine in coffee taps into the brain’s dopamine stores mimicking the effects associated with other drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy. According to the Kuakini Health System, caffeine is naturally found in coffee beans and cacao beans, and recently it started being produced chemically to add to foods and drinks.
A good amount of trainers consume drinks called pre-workouts. Pre-workouts are supplements, usually powder mixes, that boost energy and workout performance. For instance, trainers take pre-workout to increase reps and expand time before fatigue. They get this massive amount of energy and high due to the extreme amount of caffeine and carbs. Carbs are also important and generalized because they are the main source of energy the body craves. Especially after a long day of work and being worn out, people definitely rely on the pre-workout to boost energy for at least a couple more hours. What are the possible harms of taking pre-workout and consuming these amounts of caffeine, though?
Supplements like pre-workouts are not FDA approved. In other words, the nutrition facts on the side, top, or bottom of the container may not be everything they claim to have put, therefore, the company could be adding hidden ingredients. Aside from that, consuming too much can actually be considered as an overdose, but it’s rare. Some side effects may include high blood pressure, increased heart rate, nausea, diarrhea, and insomnia.
Pre-workouts and supplements like these are not needed. Consuming whole carbs (or even some protein) is a great way to increase energy as well because they are the body’s best friend. The best way to increase energy and stay active until the end of the day is to EAT RIGHT! Eating the right amount of protein, carbs, and veggies at least three times a day will seriously make a change in performance and energy throughout the day. That versus filling up on sugar or refined carbs will not satisfy or renew energy, it will only just drain and exhaust the body. As a result, the negative health risks associated with the use of pre-workout and caffeine in general indicate that these supplements should not be consumed.
