Effects of Caffeine on Physical and Cognitive Performance: A Brief Review

Abstract

Caffeine is one of the most consumed nutritional ergogenic supplements by athletes. In the literature, it is now widely accepted that caffeine taken 60 minutes before exercise improves performance. There are different methods of caffeine intake; caffeinated gum, coffee, anhydrous, and gel forms are among the most commonly used. Generally, the ergogenic effect sizes of different forms of caffeine consumption do not differ significantly. The effectiveness of caffeine doses of 3-6 mg/kg has been proven. However, in recent years, doses <3 mg/kg have also begun to be investigated, and some studies have reported positive effects. In addition, it can be stated from the literature that there is no difference in the responses of male and female athletes to caffeine. It can be argued that the distribution of the CYP1A2 gene allele (AA, AC), which is responsible for the metabolism of caffeine, may change the physical and cognitive responses to caffeine and that athletes should consider this factor