Effect of Caffeine on Cognitive Functions Psychology Essay (Essay Sample)

Effect of Caffeine on Cognitive Functions
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Effect of Caffeine on Cognitive Functions
The consumption of caffeine is increasing globally and it is estimated that over two billion cups are consumed daily. Caffeine is an alkaloid compound contained in beverages like coffee and tea. Caffeine improves mental alertness, stamina endurance, and skin nourishment but excess usage can lead to addiction and adverse effects such as increased stress levels, withdrawal, and dehydration among others.
Caffeine plays a critical role in stimulating the brain which improves mental attentiveness. The study conducted by McLellan, Caldwell & Lieberman (2016) shows that people who drink coffee in the morning hours are likely to remain attentive for the entire day unlike those who do not. For instance, McLellan, Caldwell & Lieberman (2016) note that more than 80% of the athletes who consume four cups of coffee in the morning hours remain super active for the entire day compared to the 20% who do not consume caffeine. Similarly, the same research found out that low dosages of caffeine reduce the level of anxiety, but excessive doses can lead to increased nervousness and tension. Since caffeine can give a performance advantage, it has become addictive among the athletes (McLellan, Caldwell & Lieberman, 2016). The competitive advantage among the athletes who use excess caffeine was brought into the attention of the International Olympic Committee in the year 2004. Consequently, the committee banned any athlete who tested positive for taking more than 4 cups of coffee daily (McLellan, Caldwell & Lieberman, 2016).