How does Adenosine work and why does it make you feel the way it does?
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Adenosine has a few functions in the body such as being one of the four main chemicals that make up DNA and one of the chemicals required to regulate heart rate, but probably it’s most known form is as the neurotransmitter that makes you tired.
Like all neurotransmitters it acts like a key that allows or blocks electrical transmission between neurons. Adenosine is inhibitory which means it blocks or slows the rate at which electricity jumps between neurons. Adenosine builds the longer you’re kept awake and reduces while you sleep. The more adenosine there is the more it blocks transmission which makes you less alert and more tired. GABA is a neurotransmitter which has a similar effect and is the main chemical mimicked by tranquilizers like alcohol, benzos, and sleeping pills.
Caffeine is similar in shape to adenosine so it blocks adenosine from entering receptors in the body meaning that electricity can transmit at a higher rate, making you more awake temporarily. However, adenosine continues to build up at the same rate and as caffeine wears off the tiredness comes right back in.
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