Coffee has long become an integral part of many people's lives. For some, it's a morning ritual, a way to quickly wake up and recharge for the day ahead. For others, it's a means to fight fatigue and maintain focus. However, despite its reputation as an invigorating drink, coffee can have the opposite effect and lead to drowsiness. How is this possible?
Caffeine: The Energizing Effect of Coffee
The main active ingredient in coffee is caffeine—a natural stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It blocks the action of adenosine, a substance that causes feelings of fatigue, and stimulates the production of adrenaline, leading to increased energy levels, improved concentration, and enhanced mood.
The Energizing Effect of Caffeine
The energizing effect of caffeine usually begins within 15–30 minutes after consuming coffee and can last from 3 to 5 hours, depending on individual characteristics and the amount of coffee consumed.
Theobromine: The Secret Ingredient in Coffee
In addition to caffeine, coffee contains another important substance—theobromine. This alkaloid, also found in cocoa beans, has a less pronounced but longer-lasting effect on the body than caffeine. Theobromine has a mild stimulating effect and can contribute to an improved mood and a gentle boost in energy.
However, theobromine also has a relaxing effect on muscles, which may explain why some people experience a sense of calm or even slight drowsiness after drinking coffee. Theobromine dilates blood vessels and improves blood flow, which, on the one hand, promotes better well-being, but on the other hand, may induce relaxation and a desire to lie down.
Let's take a look at the structure of the coffee bean:
It should be noted that the shell of the coffee bean is usually not included in instant coffee.
Let’s explore why this happens:
Production Process: During the production of instant coffee, the coffee beans undergo extensive processing. One of the first steps is the removal of the shell, known as the parchment. This is done to obtain a pure coffee extract.
Content of Instant Coffee: Instant coffee contains a concentrated extract derived from the inner part of the coffee bean. This part is responsible for the flavor and aroma of the beverage.
Caffeine: Caffeine is primarily found in the shell of the bean. Therefore, the caffeine content in instant coffee is generally lower than in regular ground coffee.
Why is this important to know?
Flavor: The absence of the shell makes the flavor of instant coffee smoother and less bitter compared to regular coffee.
Caffeine: If you are sensitive to caffeine, instant coffee might be a milder option for you.
Benefits: Some studies link the coffee shell to certain health benefits. However, these substances are absent in instant coffee.
Conclusion: Instant coffee, unlike regular coffee, is more likely to cause drowsiness compared to regular coffee.
Instead of a Postscript.
The "30th Kilometer" Problem and Coffee: Myth or Reality?
You’ve probably heard of the so-called "30th kilometer effect" related to coffee consumption by drivers and subsequent drowsiness at the wheel. This theory claims that after drinking a cup of coffee, a driver feels a surge of energy, but after driving about 30 kilometers, they begin to feel sleepy. Statistics indeed show that more traffic accidents occur around 30 kilometers from establishments that sell instant coffee to motorists.
Thus, coffee can be a great aid in fighting fatigue, but it can also cause drowsiness if consumed incorrectly. It is important to understand the characteristics of your body, consider the effects of not only caffeine but also theobromine, and choose the right time for a cup of coffee to get the most benefit from it.
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