Caffeine versus other stimulants!

In this article, we will discuss five substances most often compared to caffeine. We hope that thanks to this our readers will get full knowledge about the effects of caffeine and the awareness of how it falls in comparison with other substances.At the beginning, however, we would like to ask you to use caffeine in a responsible way. If you are interested in combining it with other substances, make sure that it does not enter into any undesirable interactions. Especially for medicines. Do not exceed the recommended dose of caffeine.


1. Caffeine vs L-Theanine: the best in combination

Optimal blend of Caffeine and Theanine - Apollo's Hegemony Caffeine+Theanine
Optimal blend of Caffeine and Theanine - Apollo's Hegemony Caffeine+Theanine

In the case of caffeine and L-theanine, it is difficult to find a real winner and clearly point it with your finger. Both substances greatly improve concentration and attention, but L-Theanina is considered more relaxing. Caffeine-simulating effects can be considered stronger. Recent studies have shown that L-Theanine can be as effective as caffeine in improving attention and cognitive function. [1] Most of us are not aware of this, because the dose required to feel the effects of L-theanine is at least 200 mg - about eight cups of tea! However, now that the capsules of pure L-theanine are readily available, it is easier for people to get to know the great advantages of L-theanine. L-Theanine has almost no side effects. [2] This is an active relationship, met for example in tea and is great for improving mood and relaxation. This is definitely something to think about when you consider caffeine and L-Theanine. Our advice: take these two substances together!

2. Caffeine versus alcohol: completely different effects

The effects of caffeine and alcohol can not be more different! On the one hand, we have alcohol, which is a powerful depressant, lowering response intensivity of the central nervous system. [3] On the other hand, we have caffeine, which is a very strong stimulant - increasing awareness, energy and focus. [4] In general, the comparison of caffeine and alcohol means comparing completely different substances with very different effects. Both of these substances are deeply rooted in culture and commonly consumed. However, we can not cheat. Alcohol is harmful for our health as well as for social life. It is a dangerous and highly addictive substance. Coffee, however, drank in moderation, has health-promoting properties and positively affects the relationships between people. [5]

Chemical structure of caffeine
Chemical structure of caffeine

3. Caffeine versus nicotine: the battle of addictions

Nicotine is an addictive substance found in cigarettes. Nicotine was highlighted as a chemical substance responsible for addiction to cigarettes and tobacco. Considering caffeine and nicotine, it is important to consider the possibility of addiction to both substances. Nicotine releases GABA, dopamine and glutamate - all of which are believed to be responsible for creating the basics of nicotine addiction. [6] Caffeine is also addictive, but not as much as nicotine. In fact, the debate about whether caffeine is addictive is ongoing. [7] However, some researchers have pointed to something called "caffeine use disorder" - a type of psychological dependence on caffeine. [8] Furthermore, the fact that users suffer from physical withdrawal symptoms after a long period of use indicates that it is addictive, at least to some extent. [9] When comparing caffeine and nicotine, one of these substances is much more addictive and harmful than the other.

Recommended Caffeine supplement - MZ Store Caffeine
Recommended Caffeine supplement - MZ Store Caffeine

4. Caffeine versus coffee: extract or pure substance

Caffeine is an active stimulant found in coffee beans and is released when you soak ground ground roasted beans in hot water. Caffeine is by far the most important component of coffee. It is her coffee that owes its magical properties and taste qualities. [10] Comparing caffeine with coffee, you compare the extracted compound with the raw natural product. Of course, the caffeine extract is stronger than the raw material - coffee. Caffeine extracts are much stronger than coffee. This is a great solution for people who are looking for a powerful dose of energy and increased concentration, but it also means that there are more options for overdosing. Caffeine can be dangerous when used in excess - overdose can cause serious adverse effects, hyperstimulation and even death. [11] Therefore, we urge you to use caffeine extracts in a responsible way.

5.Caffeine and green tea extract: energy and health

When we compare caffeine with green tea extract, we look at two substances with different effects. On the one hand, caffeine can bring some health benefits, but it is mainly used as a strong stimulant. On the other hand, green tea extract is mainly used as a health supplement with a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect [12]. The best-known advantages of green tea extract include: the ability to destroy free radicals (antioxidant), ability to support the immune system and support in weight maintenance body. [13] So, comparing caffeine with green tea extract, you compare the energizing stimulant with a health supplement. EGCG may have some energizing effect - although this may be due to caffeine, which is often found in green tea extracts.

References

[1] Acute effects of theanine, caffeine and theanine-caffeine combination on attention, CN Kahathuduwa et al., Nutr Neurosci. 2016 Feb 11. [Epub ahead of print] [2] In Search of a Safe Natural Sleep Aid, TP Rao et al., J Am Coll Nutr. 2015;34(5):436-47

[3] Alcohol and the central nervous system, I Imam, Br J Hosp Med (Lond). 2010 Nov;71(11):635-9

[4] Caffeine-Not just a stimulant, MJ Glade, Nutrition. 2010 Oct;26(10):932-8.

[5] Caffeine, Alcohol, and Youth: A Toxic Mix, MC O’Brien et al., J Caffeine Res. 2011 Mar; 1(1): 15–21.

[6] Nicotine Addiction, NL Benowitz, N Engl J Med. 2010 Jun 17; 362(24): 2295–2303.

[7] Is caffeine addictive?--a review of the literature, S Satel, Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 2006;32(4):493-502.

[8] Caffeine Use Disorder: A Comprehensive Review and Research Agenda, SE Meredith et al., J Caffeine Res. 2013 Sep; 3(3): 114–130.

[9] A critical review of caffeine withdrawal: empirical validation of symptoms and signs, incidence, severity, and associated features, Juliano LM, Griffiths RR, Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2004 Oct;176(1):1-29. Epub 2004 Sep 21.

[10] A perception on health benefits of coffee, SE George et al., Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2008 May;48(5):464-86

[11] Fatal caffeine overdose: two case reports, S Kerrigan, T Lindsey, Forensic Sci Int. 2005 Oct 4;153(1):67-9.

[12] Beneficial effects of green tea: A literature review, SM Chacko et al., Chin Med. 2010; 5: 13, Published online 2010 Apr 6.

[13] Health-promoting effects of green tea, Y Suzuki et al., Proc Jpn Acad Ser B Phys Biol Sci. 2012 Mar 9; 88(3): 88–101.

Tags: caffeine, coffe, egcg, nicotine, stimulants

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