A new study by the University of Montreal has brought evidence of the fact that the consumption of coffee after noon can significantly compromise the quality of sleep, even if ingested many hours before going to bed. The research was conducted with healthy adults and indicates that caffeine affects the night brain activity more deeply than previously thought.
The analysis involved 40 volunteers, from 20 to 58 years old, all with moderate consumption of the substance. Two nights passed in a sleep clinic. Part of the group received a dose of caffeine of 200 mg, equivalent to two cups of coffee, while the other part received a placebo. None of the participants or researchers knew what substance was administered in any case.
To measure the effects of caffeine, scientists used electroencephalograms (EEG), which record the electrical signals emitted by the brain. The exam showed significant changes during the non -Rem phase, crucial for muscle recovery, the strengthening of immunity and deep brain rest.
According to the managers of the study, the effects of caffeine go beyond the simple difficulty in falling asleep. As Thölke researcher explained to the Psypost website, “caffeine delays, but does not prevent sleep. So even if we can sleep under its purpose, the brain – and consequently sleep – is influenced by the substance. It leads to a more superficial sleep, with an increase in information by developing precisely in the phases in which the brain should enter into deep and reparative rest.”
The researchers also found that the distribution of electrical activity at different brain frequencies has become more uniform – or “flat” – a condition that makes the brain more sensitive to stimuli even during sleep. This indicates that, physiologically, the brain remains partially awake, even at rest.
In fact, another relevant data was the age difference in the response to caffeine. Participants between 20 and 27 years have been more susceptible to the stimulating impacts of the substance during Rem sleep, a phase associated with memories and processing of emotions. On the other hand, middle -aged adults had less sensitivity to these effects.
Therefore, the study underlines that the apparently harmless consumption of two cups of coffee in the afternoon can have negative consequences on sleep architecture. Therefore, even those who believe they are not influenced by caffeine when they sleep can underestimate the silent impacts of this substance on the functioning of the night brain.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
