Does caffeine make us have more energy even though it doesn’t have many calories? Does it make our bodies use up fat that is already stored? Where does the extra energy from caffeine come from?

Question

Does caffeine make us have more energy even though it doesn’t have many calories? Does it make our bodies use up fat that is already stored? Where does the extra energy from caffeine come from?

In: 2234

Answer 1

Your cells run on an energy source called ATP. After they use up the energy, adenosine from the molecule can ‘dock’ in receptors in your brain. This tells the brain to slow down, rest and recharge. Caffeine blocks these receptors without actually triggering them, thus you don’t feel sleepy.

Your brain overcomes this by making more receptors, hence adapting to caffeine consumption and needing more. It also explains the headaches and withdrawal symptoms experienced if you go a day or two without it; the extra receptors are removed over time and the symptoms fade.