2008 Woodie Awards
Fewer Caffeinated Beverages May Mean Better Grades
Alyse Taub
Issue date: 5/1/08 Section: Focus
It's 3 a.m. and you're sitting in a sea of books cramming for that 8 a.m. final. You have your whole kit of supplies: text book, index cards, highlighter and a good old energy drink.
It's nothing new that caffeine isn't the best for you, but you really need it, right? Wrong. Caffeine can actually cause some people to become less able to focus, according to Amy Pumerantz, registered dietitian and nutrition coordinator for Student Health Services.
"Caffeine is a drug, and there's always a concern with dependency," Pumerantz said.
One problem with caffeine is that it can often create a vicious cycle of use. People use caffeine when they are tired, and they are tired because they are sleep-deprived. Using caffeine about three to four hours before you go to sleep (like when staying up late to study for that exam) can cause you to get lower-quality sleep, making you more tired throughout the next day. This will often cause people to use even more caffeine, making them more sleep-deprived so they're more tired so they need more caffeine so they - well you get the point.
"Mild to moderate amounts of caffeine for a healthy person should not be a problem," said Pumerantz. However, overuse can cause anxiety, jitters, irritability, insomnia, gastro-intestinal problems and make it harder to focus. This is especially problematic when the caffeine is mixed with high levels of sugar.
So then how can you boost your energy without messing with caffeine?
Get Sweaty
Exercise is a great way to boost energy. Although you may feel initially fatigued you will be more alert and energized, especially if you keep your body properly fueled. According to Pumertantz, 30 minutes of aerobic activity will keep you at your peak.
Get the Munchies
It is important to keep your body filled with the right balance of nutrients. Foods high in fiber, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and proteins all help to keep your body working at its best.
It's nothing new that caffeine isn't the best for you, but you really need it, right? Wrong. Caffeine can actually cause some people to become less able to focus, according to Amy Pumerantz, registered dietitian and nutrition coordinator for Student Health Services.
"Caffeine is a drug, and there's always a concern with dependency," Pumerantz said.
One problem with caffeine is that it can often create a vicious cycle of use. People use caffeine when they are tired, and they are tired because they are sleep-deprived. Using caffeine about three to four hours before you go to sleep (like when staying up late to study for that exam) can cause you to get lower-quality sleep, making you more tired throughout the next day. This will often cause people to use even more caffeine, making them more sleep-deprived so they're more tired so they need more caffeine so they - well you get the point.
"Mild to moderate amounts of caffeine for a healthy person should not be a problem," said Pumerantz. However, overuse can cause anxiety, jitters, irritability, insomnia, gastro-intestinal problems and make it harder to focus. This is especially problematic when the caffeine is mixed with high levels of sugar.
So then how can you boost your energy without messing with caffeine?
Get Sweaty
Exercise is a great way to boost energy. Although you may feel initially fatigued you will be more alert and energized, especially if you keep your body properly fueled. According to Pumertantz, 30 minutes of aerobic activity will keep you at your peak.
Get the Munchies
It is important to keep your body filled with the right balance of nutrients. Foods high in fiber, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and proteins all help to keep your body working at its best.
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