Topic: Debunking the theory that caffeine gives you energy.
Name: Pari Bhansali
Class: XI C1
The morning sunshine and a sharp aroma diminishing the last remnants of sleep. The drink of champion and the elixir of energy that is nothing other than a concoction of caffeine! My perception of people who consumed caffeine had been that of a quintessential corporate worker, getting their life together, leading a productive morning, pulling all- nighters and getting scanty sleep. They went to work with caffeine pumping in their veins and sipped on that miraculous beverage that seemed to invigorate them throughout the day. Fascinatingly, the way people took their coffee seemed to tell me a lot about their personalities. Black coffee was categorized into the enigmatic, eager beaver at work who was grumpy at the same time. Sugar overloaded coffee went into the group of people who were vivacious and charismatic. A few years later however, I realized that caffeine consumers collectively came under the umbrella of getting fooled by the facade it presents.The prejudice in our minds have long overruled the notion that we do not need caffeinated beverages to keep us energetic throughout the day. Caffeine does not truly promote energy. It blocks the adenosine receptors in the brain that regulate alertness, sleep and memory. The adenosine receptors when working normally, start making you feel tired and sluggish. The caffeine when consumed, binds to the receptors, and we experience a boost of energy. A few hours later and the caffeine is compelled to give way to adenosine, which makes us sleepy again. It leads to an energy slump every few hours turning into a vicious cycle of weariness and energy. Grumpiness while you wait for your next caffeinated beverage. A sense of reprieve after you have had the cup. Research proves that an apple provides more energy than a cup of tea or coffee. Caffeine causes dehydration and dependency so we are forced to consume more of it. Caffeine has now become a necessity in the workplace and home where people are increasingly unwilling to rely on our actual needs which provide energy like healthy food and sleep. It is ironic how I am still drinking coffee while writing this article. An epiphany presents itself. It is not that people do not know about caffeine and energy or the lack thereof. It is only human to chase after things we feel give us happiness, but hearts of hearts we do know that they do not. The mental contentment of caffeine is the sole reason why people feel the need to consume it.
