

One team found that caffeine applied directly to the skin of mice helped prevent damaging ultraviolet (UV) light from causing skin cancer. Some scientists have suggested that caffeine may guard against certain skin cancers. Researchers have found that caffeine may help protect the lens of the eye against damage that could lead to the formation of cataracts. This condition, caused by abnormal brain function, makes people blink incessantly and can leave them functionally blind. There is some evidence that caffeine may help protect people from an eye disorder known as blepharospasm. Observational studies have found that coffee may have protective benefits for people with hepatocellular cancer. However, there is little evidence to support this theory.Ĭoffee consumption may help decrease the risk of cirrhosis and slow the rate of disease progression in hepatitis C infection. Proponents claim that a caffeine enema increases the levels of glutathione, an antioxidant, and so it supports the natural processes of detoxification in the liver. It has been suggested that caffeine enemas may help prepare the colon for an endoscopy or colonoscopy by supporting the excretion of bile through the colon wall. Research from Johns Hopkins University suggests that a dose of caffeine after a learning session may help boost long-term memory.

Studies have also reported that people with a higher coffee consumption have a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease. Research has found that lifelong caffeine consumption may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. However, more research is needed to confirm this.

Studies have suggested that drinking coffee may help enhance some thinking skills and slow the mental decline that comes with age. Coffee also contains polyphenol antioxidants, and these, too, act on various pathways.

Brain functionĬaffeine affects adenosine receptors in the brain. However, the effects on short-term, high-intensity exercise remain inconclusive. The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) recognize that caffeine can increase endurance performance, endurance capacity, and reduction in perceived exertion. Sports performanceĬaffeine can improve physical performance during endurance exercise. However, caffeine is not a substitute for sleep. AlertnessĪ 75-mg serving of caffeine can increase attention and alertness, and a 160 to 600-mg dose may improve mental alertness, speed reasoning, and memory. Research has not confirmed long-term results. Weight loss products that are marketed as thermogenics may contain caffeine and ephedra, or ephedrine.
