In two separate studies, 236 adults aged between 18 and 29 recorded their mood and caffeine intake several times a day over two to four weeks. In total, the team collected more than 23,000 data points during the studies. The lead researcher, Sakari Lemola, a professor at Bielefeld University, stated, “About 80% of adults worldwide consume caffeine-containing beverages, and the use of these stimulants dates back a long way in human history,” according to what was published about these studies.
Professor Anu Realo from the University of Warwick noted, “Caffeine works by blocking adenosine receptors, which can increase dopamine activity in key brain areas,” an effect linked by studies to improved mood and increased alertness. It is not surprising that this link between caffeine and good mood was stronger when people were tired but less evident when they drank coffee in social situations.
The researchers concluded, “This study provides evidence that caffeine consumption is associated with an increase in momentary positive effects in daily life, with its effects being most visible shortly after waking up (i.e., in the morning).” However, in contrast, caffeine did not alleviate persistent negative moods, such as anxiety, as no effects were observed on it. Additionally, excessive coffee consumption may be harmful to the nervous system and could interact with some medications, so it should not be consumed by certain individuals or only in moderation by others.
