What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Coffee?
Starting your day with a cup of coffee or tea is a daily ritual for many, with caffeine serving as a mood booster or a necessary energy kick. In the UK alone, people consume around 95 million cups of coffee daily, according to the British Coffee Association. But what exactly does caffeine do to our body?
The effects of caffeine depend on several factors, including the amount consumed, individual genetics, metabolism, and even gender. As Professor Thomas Sanders of King’s College London explains, caffeine’s impact varies significantly from person to person, with some experiencing stronger effects than others.
Read More: Is Coffee Beneficial for Heart Health?
Psychological and Physical Effects of Caffeine
When you drink your coffee, the mood-lifting sensation you experience is often a placebo effect rather than an immediate biological change. Caffeine takes about 20 minutes to be absorbed into the bloodstream, triggering physical changes such as an increased heart rate. For those feeling sluggish, caffeine offers a slight energy boost, which explains why so many people rely on their morning coffee to kickstart the day.
About 20 minutes after consumption, caffeine can give you a brief “rush of euphoria,” contributing to the feel-good sensation associated with the first cup of coffee. Concentration and alertness typically peak about an hour after consumption, though individual metabolism rates may cause this to vary.
Read More: Morning Coffee Enhances Energy and Health, Study Finds
Caffeine’s Impact on the Body
Caffeine also has a diuretic effect, meaning it increases urination around 30 minutes after consumption. This effect can be more pronounced in individuals with bladder or prostate issues, as noted by Professor Sanders. Between 60 to 90 minutes, caffeine stimulates the bowels, increasing activity. Studies show that caffeine enhances colon activity by 60% compared to water, and 23% compared to decaffeinated coffee.
The Caffeine Crash
The inevitable caffeine crash occurs after the initial boost. For example, coffee consumed at 8 AM may lead to a slump by 11 AM, prompting many people to grab another cup. By noon, caffeine usually leaves the system, creating a cycle of dependence for those who drink coffee regularly.
