Effects of Coffee on the Body

What actually happens inside your body the moment you drink a cup

of coffee?

Caffeine is absorbed quickly, passing through your stomach,

lining into your

bloodstream within about twenty minutes.

Once it reaches your brain, caffeine blocks a chemical called

adenosine, the same one that normally builds up and makes you feel

sleepy.

With adenosine blocked, your brain cells fire more easily,

which is what

creates that immediate feeling of alertness.

At the same time, your body releases adrenaline,

the same hormone involved

in your fight or flight response.

That adrenaline pushes your heart rate and blood pressure up slightly,

which is part of why coffee can make you feel more awake and focused.

Coffee also increases stomach acid production, which is why it can

feel harsh on an empty stomach. It also has a mild

diuretic effect, causing your kidneys to filter

and release fluid a

little faster than usual.

Eventually, your liver breaks the caffeine down

completely, which is why the

effects fade a few hours later.

How many cups of coffee do you have a day? Tell us in the comments.