The Impact of Caffeine on Sleep and Overall Health

Caffeine has a wide-ranging and prolonged effect on the body, particularly on the brain, nervous system, and overall physiological functions like sleep. Research shows that caffeine affects both the central nervous system (CNS) and the autonomic nervous system, including the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches. Even when consumed early in the day, caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns and have lingering effects on health.

Caffeine’s Mechanism of Action

Caffeine exerts its primary effects by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain. Adenosine is a neurotransmitter responsible for promoting sleep and relaxation as its levels rise throughout the day. When caffeine binds to these receptors, it prevents the natural buildup of adenosine, delaying the onset of sleep and keeping the nervous system in an alert state for hours after consumption​.