In reading Joe Dolson’s recent piece on the intersection of AI and accessibility, I absolutely appreciated the skepticism that he has for AI in general as well as for the ways that many have been using it. In fact, I’m very skeptical of AI myself, despite my role at Microsoft as an accessibility innovation strategist who helps run the AI for Accessibility grant program. As with any tool, AI can be used in very constructive, inclusive, and accessible ways; and it can also be used in destructive, exclusive, and harmful ones. And there are a ton of uses somewhere in the mediocre middle as well.
I’d like you to consider this a “yes… and” piece to complement Joe’s post. I’m not trying to refute any of what he’s saying but rather provide some visibility to projects and opportunities where AI can make meaningful differences for people with disabilities. To be clear, I’m not saying that there aren’t real risks or pressing issues with AI that need to be addressed—there are, and we’ve needed to address them, like, yesterday—but I want to take a little time to talk about what’s possible in hopes that we’ll get there one day.
Joe’s piece spends a lot of time talking about computer-vision models generating alternative text. He highlights a ton of valid issues with the current state of things. And while computer-vision models continue to improve in the quality and richness of detail in their descriptions, their results aren’t great. As he rightly points out, the current state of image analysis is pretty poor—especially for certain image types—in large part because current AI systems examine images in isolation rather than within the contexts that they’re in (which is a consequence of having separate “foundation” models for text analysis and image analysis). Today’s models aren’t trained to distinguish between images that are contextually relevant (that should probably have descriptions) and those that are purely decorative (which might not need a description) either. Still, I still think there’s potential in this space.
As Joe mentions, human-in-the-loop authoring of alt text should absolutely be a thing. And if AI can pop in to offer a starting point for alt text—even if that starting point might be a prompt saying What is this BS? That’s not right at all… Let me try to offer a starting point—I think that’s a win.
Taking things a step further, if we can specifically train a model to analyze image usage in context, it could help us more quickly identify which images are likely to be decorative and which ones likely require a description. That will help reinforce which contexts call for image descriptions and it’ll improve authors’ efficiency toward making their pages more accessible.
While complex images—like graphs and charts—are challenging to describe in any sort of succinct way (even for humans), the image example shared in the GPT4 announcement points to an interesting opportunity as well. Let’s suppose that you came across a chart whose description was simply the title of the chart and the kind of visualization it was, such as: Pie chart comparing smartphone usage to feature phone usage among US households making under $30,000 a year. (That would be a pretty awful alt text for a chart since that would tend to leave many questions about the data unanswered, but then again, let’s suppose that that was the description that was in place.) If your browser knew that that image was a pie chart (because an onboard model concluded this), imagine a world where users could ask questions like these about the graphic:
Setting aside the realities of large language model (LLM) hallucinations—where a model just makes up plausible-sounding “facts”—for a moment, the opportunity to learn more about images and data in this way could be revolutionary for blind and low-vision folks as well as for people with various forms of color blindness, cognitive disabilities, and so on. It could also be useful in educational contexts to help people who can see these charts, as is, to understand the data in the charts.
Taking things a step further: What if you could ask your browser to simplify a complex chart? What if you could ask it to isolate a single line on a line graph? What if you could ask your browser to transpose the colors of the different lines to work better for form of color blindness you have? What if you could ask it to swap colors for patterns? Given these tools’ chat-based interfaces and our existing ability to manipulate images in today’s AI tools, that seems like a possibility.
Now imagine a purpose-built model that could extract the information from that chart and convert it to another format. For example, perhaps it could turn that pie chart (or better yet, a series of pie charts) into more accessible (and useful) formats, like spreadsheets. That would be amazing!
Safiya Umoja Noble absolutely hit the nail on the head when she titled her book Algorithms of Oppression. While her book was focused on the ways that search engines reinforce racism, I think that it’s equally true that all computer models have the potential to amplify conflict, bias, and intolerance. Whether it’s Twitter always showing you the latest tweet from a bored billionaire, YouTube sending us into a Q-hole, or Instagram warping our ideas of what natural bodies look like, we know that poorly authored and maintained algorithms are incredibly harmful. A lot of this stems from a lack of diversity among the people who shape and build them. When these platforms are built with inclusively baked in, however, there’s real potential for algorithm development to help people with disabilities.
Take Mentra, for example. They are an employment network for neurodivergent people. They use an algorithm to match job seekers with potential employers based on over 75 data points. On the job-seeker side of things, it considers each candidate’s strengths, their necessary and preferred workplace accommodations, environmental sensitivities, and so on. On the employer side, it considers each work environment, communication factors related to each job, and the like. As a company run by neurodivergent folks, Mentra made the decision to flip the script when it came to typical employment sites. They use their algorithm to propose available candidates to companies, who can then connect with job seekers that they are interested in; reducing the emotional and physical labor on the job-seeker side of things.
When more people with disabilities are involved in the creation of algorithms, that can reduce the chances that these algorithms will inflict harm on their communities. That’s why diverse teams are so important.
Imagine that a social media company’s recommendation engine was tuned to analyze who you’re following and if it was tuned to prioritize follow recommendations for people who talked about similar things but who were different in some key ways from your existing sphere of influence. For example, if you were to follow a bunch of nondisabled white male academics who talk about AI, it could suggest that you follow academics who are disabled or aren’t white or aren’t male who also talk about AI. If you took its recommendations, perhaps you’d get a more holistic and nuanced understanding of what’s happening in the AI field. These same systems should also use their understanding of biases about particular communities—including, for instance, the disability community—to make sure that they aren’t recommending any of their users follow accounts that perpetuate biases against (or, worse, spewing hate toward) those groups.
If I weren’t trying to put this together between other tasks, I’m sure that I could go on and on, providing all kinds of examples of how AI could be used to help people with disabilities, but I’m going to make this last section into a bit of a lightning round. In no particular order:
We need to recognize that our differences matter. Our lived experiences are influenced by the intersections of the identities that we exist in. These lived experiences—with all their complexities (and joys and pain)—are valuable inputs to the software, services, and societies that we shape. Our differences need to be represented in the data that we use to train new models, and the folks who contribute that valuable information need to be compensated for sharing it with us. Inclusive data sets yield more robust models that foster more equitable outcomes.
Want a model that doesn’t demean or patronize or objectify people with disabilities? Make sure that you have content about disabilities that’s authored by people with a range of disabilities, and make sure that that’s well represented in the training data.
Want a model that doesn’t use ableist language? You may be able to use existing data sets to build a filter that can intercept and remediate ableist language before it reaches readers. That being said, when it comes to sensitivity reading, AI models won’t be replacing human copy editors anytime soon.
Want a coding copilot that gives you accessible recommendations from the jump? Train it on code that you know to be accessible.
I have no doubt that AI can and will harm people… today, tomorrow, and well into the future. But I also believe that we can acknowledge that and, with an eye towards accessibility (and, more broadly, inclusion), make thoughtful, considerate, and intentional changes in our approaches to AI that will reduce harm over time as well. Today, tomorrow, and well into the future.
Many thanks to Kartik Sawhney for helping me with the development of this piece, Ashley Bischoff for her invaluable editorial assistance, and, of course, Joe Dolson for the prompt.
Ever since I was a boy, I’ve been fascinated with movies. I loved the characters and the excitement—but most of all the stories. I wanted to be an actor. And I believed that I’d get to do the things that Indiana Jones did and go on exciting adventures. I even dreamed up ideas for movies that my friends and I could make and star in. But they never went any further. I did, however, end up working in user experience (UX). Now, I realize that there’s an element of theater to UX—I hadn’t really considered it before, but user research is storytelling. And to get the most out of user research, you need to tell a good story where you bring stakeholders—the product team and decision makers—along and get them interested in learning more.
Think of your favorite movie. More than likely it follows a three-act structure that’s commonly seen in storytelling: the setup, the conflict, and the resolution. The first act shows what exists today, and it helps you get to know the characters and the challenges and problems that they face. Act two introduces the conflict, where the action is. Here, problems grow or get worse. And the third and final act is the resolution. This is where the issues are resolved and the characters learn and change. I believe that this structure is also a great way to think about user research, and I think that it can be especially helpful in explaining user research to others.
It’s sad to say, but many have come to see research as being expendable. If budgets or timelines are tight, research tends to be one of the first things to go. Instead of investing in research, some product managers rely on designers or—worse—their own opinion to make the “right” choices for users based on their experience or accepted best practices. That may get teams some of the way, but that approach can so easily miss out on solving users’ real problems. To remain user-centered, this is something we should avoid. User research elevates design. It keeps it on track, pointing to problems and opportunities. Being aware of the issues with your product and reacting to them can help you stay ahead of your competitors.
In the three-act structure, each act corresponds to a part of the process, and each part is critical to telling the whole story. Let’s look at the different acts and how they align with user research.
The setup is all about understanding the background, and that’s where foundational research comes in. Foundational research (also called generative, discovery, or initial research) helps you understand users and identify their problems. You’re learning about what exists today, the challenges users have, and how the challenges affect them—just like in the movies. To do foundational research, you can conduct contextual inquiries or diary studies (or both!), which can help you start to identify problems as well as opportunities. It doesn’t need to be a huge investment in time or money.
Erika Hall writes about minimum viable ethnography, which can be as simple as spending 15 minutes with a user and asking them one thing: “‘Walk me through your day yesterday.’ That’s it. Present that one request. Shut up and listen to them for 15 minutes. Do your damndest to keep yourself and your interests out of it. Bam, you’re doing ethnography.” According to Hall, “[This] will probably prove quite illuminating. In the highly unlikely case that you didn’t learn anything new or useful, carry on with enhanced confidence in your direction.”
This makes total sense to me. And I love that this makes user research so accessible. You don’t need to prepare a lot of documentation; you can just recruit participants and do it! This can yield a wealth of information about your users, and it’ll help you better understand them and what’s going on in their lives. That’s really what act one is all about: understanding where users are coming from.
Jared Spool talks about the importance of foundational research and how it should form the bulk of your research. If you can draw from any additional user data that you can get your hands on, such as surveys or analytics, that can supplement what you’ve heard in the foundational studies or even point to areas that need further investigation. Together, all this data paints a clearer picture of the state of things and all its shortcomings. And that’s the beginning of a compelling story. It’s the point in the plot where you realize that the main characters—or the users in this case—are facing challenges that they need to overcome. Like in the movies, this is where you start to build empathy for the characters and root for them to succeed. And hopefully stakeholders are now doing the same. Their sympathy may be with their business, which could be losing money because users can’t complete certain tasks. Or maybe they do empathize with users’ struggles. Either way, act one is your initial hook to get the stakeholders interested and invested.
Once stakeholders begin to understand the value of foundational research, that can open doors to more opportunities that involve users in the decision-making process. And that can guide product teams toward being more user-centered. This benefits everyone—users, the product, and stakeholders. It’s like winning an Oscar in movie terms—it often leads to your product being well received and successful. And this can be an incentive for stakeholders to repeat this process with other products. Storytelling is the key to this process, and knowing how to tell a good story is the only way to get stakeholders to really care about doing more research.
This brings us to act two, where you iteratively evaluate a design or concept to see whether it addresses the issues.
Act two is all about digging deeper into the problems that you identified in act one. This usually involves directional research, such as usability tests, where you assess a potential solution (such as a design) to see whether it addresses the issues that you found. The issues could include unmet needs or problems with a flow or process that’s tripping users up. Like act two in a movie, more issues will crop up along the way. It’s here that you learn more about the characters as they grow and develop through this act.
Usability tests should typically include around five participants according to Jakob Nielsen, who found that that number of users can usually identify most of the problems: “As you add more and more users, you learn less and less because you will keep seeing the same things again and again… After the fifth user, you are wasting your time by observing the same findings repeatedly but not learning much new.”
There are parallels with storytelling here too; if you try to tell a story with too many characters, the plot may get lost. Having fewer participants means that each user’s struggles will be more memorable and easier to relay to other stakeholders when talking about the research. This can help convey the issues that need to be addressed while also highlighting the value of doing the research in the first place.
Researchers have run usability tests in person for decades, but you can also conduct usability tests remotely using tools like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or other teleconferencing software. This approach has become increasingly popular since the beginning of the pandemic, and it works well. You can think of in-person usability tests like going to a play and remote sessions as more like watching a movie. There are advantages and disadvantages to each. In-person usability research is a much richer experience. Stakeholders can experience the sessions with other stakeholders. You also get real-time reactions—including surprise, agreement, disagreement, and discussions about what they’re seeing. Much like going to a play, where audiences get to take in the stage, the costumes, the lighting, and the actors’ interactions, in-person research lets you see users up close, including their body language, how they interact with the moderator, and how the scene is set up.
If in-person usability testing is like watching a play—staged and controlled—then conducting usability testing in the field is like immersive theater where any two sessions might be very different from one another. You can take usability testing into the field by creating a replica of the space where users interact with the product and then conduct your research there. Or you can go out to meet users at their location to do your research. With either option, you get to see how things work in context, things come up that wouldn’t have in a lab environment—and conversion can shift in entirely different directions. As researchers, you have less control over how these sessions go, but this can sometimes help you understand users even better. Meeting users where they are can provide clues to the external forces that could be affecting how they use your product. In-person usability tests provide another level of detail that’s often missing from remote usability tests.
That’s not to say that the “movies”—remote sessions—aren’t a good option. Remote sessions can reach a wider audience. They allow a lot more stakeholders to be involved in the research and to see what’s going on. And they open the doors to a much wider geographical pool of users. But with any remote session there is the potential of time wasted if participants can’t log in or get their microphone working.
The benefit of usability testing, whether remote or in person, is that you get to see real users interact with the designs in real time, and you can ask them questions to understand their thought processes and grasp of the solution. This can help you not only identify problems but also glean why they’re problems in the first place. Furthermore, you can test hypotheses and gauge whether your thinking is correct. By the end of the sessions, you’ll have a much clearer picture of how usable the designs are and whether they work for their intended purposes. Act two is the heart of the story—where the excitement is—but there can be surprises too. This is equally true of usability tests. Often, participants will say unexpected things, which change the way that you look at things—and these twists in the story can move things in new directions.
Unfortunately, user research is sometimes seen as expendable. And too often usability testing is the only research process that some stakeholders think that they ever need. In fact, if the designs that you’re evaluating in the usability test aren’t grounded in a solid understanding of your users (foundational research), there’s not much to be gained by doing usability testing in the first place. That’s because you’re narrowing the focus of what you’re getting feedback on, without understanding the users’ needs. As a result, there’s no way of knowing whether the designs might solve a problem that users have. It’s only feedback on a particular design in the context of a usability test.
On the other hand, if you only do foundational research, while you might have set out to solve the right problem, you won’t know whether the thing that you’re building will actually solve that. This illustrates the importance of doing both foundational and directional research.
In act two, stakeholders will—hopefully—get to watch the story unfold in the user sessions, which creates the conflict and tension in the current design by surfacing their highs and lows. And in turn, this can help motivate stakeholders to address the issues that come up.
While the first two acts are about understanding the background and the tensions that can propel stakeholders into action, the third part is about resolving the problems from the first two acts. While it’s important to have an audience for the first two acts, it’s crucial that they stick around for the final act. That means the whole product team, including developers, UX practitioners, business analysts, delivery managers, product managers, and any other stakeholders that have a say in the next steps. It allows the whole team to hear users’ feedback together, ask questions, and discuss what’s possible within the project’s constraints. And it lets the UX research and design teams clarify, suggest alternatives, or give more context behind their decisions. So you can get everyone on the same page and get agreement on the way forward.
This act is mostly told in voiceover with some audience participation. The researcher is the narrator, who paints a picture of the issues and what the future of the product could look like given the things that the team has learned. They give the stakeholders their recommendations and their guidance on creating this vision.
Nancy Duarte in the Harvard Business Review offers an approach to structuring presentations that follow a persuasive story. “The most effective presenters use the same techniques as great storytellers: By reminding people of the status quo and then revealing the path to a better way, they set up a conflict that needs to be resolved,” writes Duarte. “That tension helps them persuade the audience to adopt a new mindset or behave differently.”
This type of structure aligns well with research results, and particularly results from usability tests. It provides evidence for “what is”—the problems that you’ve identified. And “what could be”—your recommendations on how to address them. And so on and so forth.
You can reinforce your recommendations with examples of things that competitors are doing that could address these issues or with examples where competitors are gaining an edge. Or they can be visual, like quick mockups of how a new design could look that solves a problem. These can help generate conversation and momentum. And this continues until the end of the session when you’ve wrapped everything up in the conclusion by summarizing the main issues and suggesting a way forward. This is the part where you reiterate the main themes or problems and what they mean for the product—the denouement of the story. This stage gives stakeholders the next steps and hopefully the momentum to take those steps!
While we are nearly at the end of this story, let’s reflect on the idea that user research is storytelling. All the elements of a good story are there in the three-act structure of user research:
The researcher has multiple roles: they’re the storyteller, the director, and the producer. The participants have a small role, but they are significant characters (in the research). And the stakeholders are the audience. But the most important thing is to get the story right and to use storytelling to tell users’ stories through research. By the end, the stakeholders should walk away with a purpose and an eagerness to resolve the product’s ills.
So the next time that you’re planning research with clients or you’re speaking to stakeholders about research that you’ve done, think about how you can weave in some storytelling. Ultimately, user research is a win-win for everyone, and you just need to get stakeholders interested in how the story ends.
Don’t sleep on these deals.
When your energy stores are running low (like, really low), stretching out that much-needed caffeine buzz from your morning cuppa is a non-negotiable.
This is even more imperative if having more than one cup of coffee irritates your stomach (hi, endless hours of acid reflux). But according to food scientists, drinking more coffee isn’t necessarily the solution to get you through a mid-day slump. In fact, there are a few ways to hack your caffeine intake to keep that energy “high” going well past your first sip of the day.
Ahead, we’re sharing seven ways to stay as energized as possible while keeping your overall caffeine intake low.
First things first, why does coffee (or other caffeinated beverages) make you feel buzzed to begin with? According to Natalie Alibrandi, a London-based food scientist and CEO of Nali Consulting, it’s due to a chain reaction that occurs in your brain upon ingesting caffeine.
“The caffeine ‘buzz’ is created primarily through blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and drowsiness. Caffeine competes with adenosine for binding to its receptors in the brain, so instead we may feel increased alertness,” Alibrandi explains.
Aside from the effect caffeine has on the brain, Alibrandi says there are secondary effects it may have throughout the body, particularly on your central nervous system (CNS). “A stimulated CNS, [can lead] to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure implicated in the ‘buzz-like’ sensation,” she says.
Have jitters from too much caffeine? Alibrandi says caffeine’s stimulatory effects on the CNS are likely to blame. “Caffeine also stimulates adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. High adrenaline can lead to nervousness and jitteriness,” Alibrandi explains.
The length of a caffeine-induced buzz can vary from person to person, but Alibrandi says the effects of caffeine can start to kick in within just 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Meanwhile, the “peak buzz” will typically occur around the 30- to 60-minute mark post-consumption.
But you should only expect the effects of caffeine to last between three to six hours (at best). The big time gap is due to three main factors: how much caffeine is consumed, individual tolerance, and metabolism, Alibrandi says. Plus, she notes that caffeine tolerance can build up over time with regular consumption.
According to Alibrandi, one of the best ways to make your caffeine buzz last longer is to pair it with L-theanine, an amino acid known for its ability to help enhance alertness.
“To extend a caffeine ‘high,’ stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and consider combining caffeine with L-theanine, that [according to] research, synergizes with caffeine for a smoother and longer-lasting buzz, while reducing jitteriness,” she says.
Alibrandi notes that L-theanine is available via supplement form or can be found in caffeinated beverages like green tea.
While keeping in mind that consuming sugar in moderation is always important, Alibrandi says this pantry staple can potentially help prolong a caffeine buzz. “Some research suggests that sugar in energy drinks may enhance caffeine’s initial effects, prolonging alertness and subjective energy,” she says.
However, Alibrandi notes that this approach may not be optimal for overall health due to potential blood glucose spikes and caffeine crashes, aka the fatigue experienced after consuming too much caffeine.
“Drinking a caffeinated beverage over a longer period of time may help sustain a milder and more prolonged caffeine buzz compared to consuming it quickly all at once,” Alibrandi says. “This is because gradual intake allows for a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream, potentially reducing the risk of abrupt spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels,” she adds.
As such, slow and steady (caffeine intake) usually wins the race. But this, again, can vary depending on a person’s tolerance.
Although the influence of food on caffeine metabolism is generally considered minor compared to factors like genetics, liver function, and individual metabolism, there are a few nutrients that can potentially help prolong the effects of caffeine, Alibrandi says.
“Some foods, such as those high in antioxidants, fat, protein, and particularly foods rich in dietary fiber may have subtle effects on caffeine absorption and digestion due to their impact on gastric emptying and metabolism,” she says. But Alibrandi notes that scientific evidence supporting the significant influence of specific foods on caffeine metabolism is limited.
According to Alibrandi, it’s best to wait roughly 60 to 90 minutes after waking up to start consuming caffeine. “This allows for the adenosine to get flushed out and allows your body to naturally wake up before you add in caffeine,” she says.
In addition to this, Alibrandi explains that some studies suggest that consuming coffee after eating breakfast may be beneficial for several reasons. “Recent discussions suggest that consuming coffee after breakfast, rather than before, may help moderate blood glucose levels and potentially extend the duration of a caffeine-induced ‘high,’” she says. “Blood glucose spikes influence factors like general functioning, appetite, and restlessness, all of which contribute to feelings of being energized, often associated with caffeine consumption.”
That said, more research is needed on the topic to conclusively determine this relationship.
“Beverages with higher caffeine concentrations, like espresso shots and energy drinks, are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting buzz,” Alibrandi says.
She explains that their smaller volume contributes to faster absorption compared to larger (by volume) drinks like coffee or tea (if no other caffeine has been consumed already). On the flip side, lower-caffeinated beverages may yield a milder and shorter-lasting effect, she adds.
That said, Alibrandi notes that individual tolerance, again, typically plays a huge role, with regular caffeine drinkers often needing higher doses to experience the same buzz. But if there’s one thing Alibrandi wants to stress it’s that moderation is key, especially when it comes to optimizing a caffeine buzz while minimizing negative effects like jitteriness and insomnia. In other words, more caffeine might not be the solution for everyone.
Alibrandi says getting adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing mindful caffeine consumption are also equally as important to further optimizing the effects of caffeine and duration of a buzz. However, to reiterate, more caffeine isn’t always the way to go.
“Consumption of high quantities [of caffeine] habitually may increase the likelihood of abuse of caffeine over time, further weakening the strength of a buzz,” she says.
Although your initial instinct to keep the buzz going may be to drink more caffeine, Alibrandi says you may want to think twice before refilling your cup for the zillionth time in a day. Indeed, more caffeine intake can equal a longer buzz, but it comes with a few drawbacks. “The more caffeine, the more adenosine receptors are blocked, which can result in a more pronounced stimulating effect,” Alibrandi explains.
Trevor Craig, a food safety expert and corporate director of technical training and consulting at Microbac Laboratories, also adds that the average half-life of caffeine can be anywhere from two to six hours. “This means that the more you have, the longer the effects, but again the harsher the downfall would be,” Craig says.
Not to mention, there’s only so much caffeine your body can handle, Alibrandi explains. “There’s a limit to how much caffeine your body can effectively process. When the enzymes in the liver reach their limit in metabolizing caffeine, further intake won’t enhance its effects,” she says.
In fact, she notes that repeated exposure to caffeine can make your body “down-regulate” or “desensitize” adenosine receptors in the brain, meaning their sensitivity to caffeine is diminished.
Plus, more caffeine intake can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort that can detract from the overall buzz, she says.
Benefits of coffee, according to an RD:
Both can make you feel less focused and more brain foggy, but the link runs deeper.
When your energy stores are running low (like, really low), stretching out that much-needed caffeine buzz from your morning cuppa is a non-negotiable.
This is even more imperative if having more than one cup of coffee irritates your stomach (hi, endless hours of acid reflux). But according to food scientists, drinking more coffee isn’t necessarily the solution to get you through a mid-day slump. In fact, there are a few ways to hack your caffeine intake to keep that energy “high” going well past your first sip of the day.
Ahead, we’re sharing seven ways to stay as energized as possible while keeping your overall caffeine intake low.
First things first, why does coffee (or other caffeinated beverages) make you feel buzzed to begin with? According to Natalie Alibrandi, a London-based food scientist and CEO of Nali Consulting, it’s due to a chain reaction that occurs in your brain upon ingesting caffeine.
“The caffeine ‘buzz’ is created primarily through blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and drowsiness. Caffeine competes with adenosine for binding to its receptors in the brain, so instead we may feel increased alertness,” Alibrandi explains.
Aside from the effect caffeine has on the brain, Alibrandi says there are secondary effects it may have throughout the body, particularly on your central nervous system (CNS). “A stimulated CNS, [can lead] to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure implicated in the ‘buzz-like’ sensation,” she says.
Have jitters from too much caffeine? Alibrandi says caffeine’s stimulatory effects on the CNS are likely to blame. “Caffeine also stimulates adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. High adrenaline can lead to nervousness and jitteriness,” Alibrandi explains.
The length of a caffeine-induced buzz can vary from person to person, but Alibrandi says the effects of caffeine can start to kick in within just 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Meanwhile, the “peak buzz” will typically occur around the 30- to 60-minute mark post-consumption.
But you should only expect the effects of caffeine to last between three to six hours (at best). The big time gap is due to three main factors: how much caffeine is consumed, individual tolerance, and metabolism, Alibrandi says. Plus, she notes that caffeine tolerance can build up over time with regular consumption.
According to Alibrandi, one of the best ways to make your caffeine buzz last longer is to pair it with L-theanine, an amino acid known for its ability to help enhance alertness.
“To extend a caffeine ‘high,’ stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and consider combining caffeine with L-theanine, that [according to] research, synergizes with caffeine for a smoother and longer-lasting buzz, while reducing jitteriness,” she says.
Alibrandi notes that L-theanine is available via supplement form or can be found in caffeinated beverages like green tea.
While keeping in mind that consuming sugar in moderation is always important, Alibrandi says this pantry staple can potentially help prolong a caffeine buzz. “Some research suggests that sugar in energy drinks may enhance caffeine’s initial effects, prolonging alertness and subjective energy,” she says.
However, Alibrandi notes that this approach may not be optimal for overall health due to potential blood glucose spikes and caffeine crashes, aka the fatigue experienced after consuming too much caffeine.
“Drinking a caffeinated beverage over a longer period of time may help sustain a milder and more prolonged caffeine buzz compared to consuming it quickly all at once,” Alibrandi says. “This is because gradual intake allows for a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream, potentially reducing the risk of abrupt spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels,” she adds.
As such, slow and steady (caffeine intake) usually wins the race. But this, again, can vary depending on a person’s tolerance.
Although the influence of food on caffeine metabolism is generally considered minor compared to factors like genetics, liver function, and individual metabolism, there are a few nutrients that can potentially help prolong the effects of caffeine, Alibrandi says.
“Some foods, such as those high in antioxidants, fat, protein, and particularly foods rich in dietary fiber may have subtle effects on caffeine absorption and digestion due to their impact on gastric emptying and metabolism,” she says. But Alibrandi notes that scientific evidence supporting the significant influence of specific foods on caffeine metabolism is limited.
According to Alibrandi, it’s best to wait roughly 60 to 90 minutes after waking up to start consuming caffeine. “This allows for the adenosine to get flushed out and allows your body to naturally wake up before you add in caffeine,” she says.
In addition to this, Alibrandi explains that some studies suggest that consuming coffee after eating breakfast may be beneficial for several reasons. “Recent discussions suggest that consuming coffee after breakfast, rather than before, may help moderate blood glucose levels and potentially extend the duration of a caffeine-induced ‘high,’” she says. “Blood glucose spikes influence factors like general functioning, appetite, and restlessness, all of which contribute to feelings of being energized, often associated with caffeine consumption.”
That said, more research is needed on the topic to conclusively determine this relationship.
“Beverages with higher caffeine concentrations, like espresso shots and energy drinks, are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting buzz,” Alibrandi says.
She explains that their smaller volume contributes to faster absorption compared to larger (by volume) drinks like coffee or tea (if no other caffeine has been consumed already). On the flip side, lower-caffeinated beverages may yield a milder and shorter-lasting effect, she adds.
That said, Alibrandi notes that individual tolerance, again, typically plays a huge role, with regular caffeine drinkers often needing higher doses to experience the same buzz. But if there’s one thing Alibrandi wants to stress it’s that moderation is key, especially when it comes to optimizing a caffeine buzz while minimizing negative effects like jitteriness and insomnia. In other words, more caffeine might not be the solution for everyone.
Alibrandi says getting adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing mindful caffeine consumption are also equally as important to further optimizing the effects of caffeine and duration of a buzz. However, to reiterate, more caffeine isn’t always the way to go.
“Consumption of high quantities [of caffeine] habitually may increase the likelihood of abuse of caffeine over time, further weakening the strength of a buzz,” she says.
Although your initial instinct to keep the buzz going may be to drink more caffeine, Alibrandi says you may want to think twice before refilling your cup for the zillionth time in a day. Indeed, more caffeine intake can equal a longer buzz, but it comes with a few drawbacks. “The more caffeine, the more adenosine receptors are blocked, which can result in a more pronounced stimulating effect,” Alibrandi explains.
Trevor Craig, a food safety expert and corporate director of technical training and consulting at Microbac Laboratories, also adds that the average half-life of caffeine can be anywhere from two to six hours. “This means that the more you have, the longer the effects, but again the harsher the downfall would be,” Craig says.
Not to mention, there’s only so much caffeine your body can handle, Alibrandi explains. “There’s a limit to how much caffeine your body can effectively process. When the enzymes in the liver reach their limit in metabolizing caffeine, further intake won’t enhance its effects,” she says.
In fact, she notes that repeated exposure to caffeine can make your body “down-regulate” or “desensitize” adenosine receptors in the brain, meaning their sensitivity to caffeine is diminished.
Plus, more caffeine intake can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort that can detract from the overall buzz, she says.
Benefits of coffee, according to an RD:
You’ll notice more than just a puffy, red kisser.
When your energy stores are running low (like, really low), stretching out that much-needed caffeine buzz from your morning cuppa is a non-negotiable.
This is even more imperative if having more than one cup of coffee irritates your stomach (hi, endless hours of acid reflux). But according to food scientists, drinking more coffee isn’t necessarily the solution to get you through a mid-day slump. In fact, there are a few ways to hack your caffeine intake to keep that energy “high” going well past your first sip of the day.
Ahead, we’re sharing seven ways to stay as energized as possible while keeping your overall caffeine intake low.
First things first, why does coffee (or other caffeinated beverages) make you feel buzzed to begin with? According to Natalie Alibrandi, a London-based food scientist and CEO of Nali Consulting, it’s due to a chain reaction that occurs in your brain upon ingesting caffeine.
“The caffeine ‘buzz’ is created primarily through blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and drowsiness. Caffeine competes with adenosine for binding to its receptors in the brain, so instead we may feel increased alertness,” Alibrandi explains.
Aside from the effect caffeine has on the brain, Alibrandi says there are secondary effects it may have throughout the body, particularly on your central nervous system (CNS). “A stimulated CNS, [can lead] to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure implicated in the ‘buzz-like’ sensation,” she says.
Have jitters from too much caffeine? Alibrandi says caffeine’s stimulatory effects on the CNS are likely to blame. “Caffeine also stimulates adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. High adrenaline can lead to nervousness and jitteriness,” Alibrandi explains.
The length of a caffeine-induced buzz can vary from person to person, but Alibrandi says the effects of caffeine can start to kick in within just 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Meanwhile, the “peak buzz” will typically occur around the 30- to 60-minute mark post-consumption.
But you should only expect the effects of caffeine to last between three to six hours (at best). The big time gap is due to three main factors: how much caffeine is consumed, individual tolerance, and metabolism, Alibrandi says. Plus, she notes that caffeine tolerance can build up over time with regular consumption.
According to Alibrandi, one of the best ways to make your caffeine buzz last longer is to pair it with L-theanine, an amino acid known for its ability to help enhance alertness.
“To extend a caffeine ‘high,’ stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and consider combining caffeine with L-theanine, that [according to] research, synergizes with caffeine for a smoother and longer-lasting buzz, while reducing jitteriness,” she says.
Alibrandi notes that L-theanine is available via supplement form or can be found in caffeinated beverages like green tea.
While keeping in mind that consuming sugar in moderation is always important, Alibrandi says this pantry staple can potentially help prolong a caffeine buzz. “Some research suggests that sugar in energy drinks may enhance caffeine’s initial effects, prolonging alertness and subjective energy,” she says.
However, Alibrandi notes that this approach may not be optimal for overall health due to potential blood glucose spikes and caffeine crashes, aka the fatigue experienced after consuming too much caffeine.
“Drinking a caffeinated beverage over a longer period of time may help sustain a milder and more prolonged caffeine buzz compared to consuming it quickly all at once,” Alibrandi says. “This is because gradual intake allows for a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream, potentially reducing the risk of abrupt spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels,” she adds.
As such, slow and steady (caffeine intake) usually wins the race. But this, again, can vary depending on a person’s tolerance.
Although the influence of food on caffeine metabolism is generally considered minor compared to factors like genetics, liver function, and individual metabolism, there are a few nutrients that can potentially help prolong the effects of caffeine, Alibrandi says.
“Some foods, such as those high in antioxidants, fat, protein, and particularly foods rich in dietary fiber may have subtle effects on caffeine absorption and digestion due to their impact on gastric emptying and metabolism,” she says. But Alibrandi notes that scientific evidence supporting the significant influence of specific foods on caffeine metabolism is limited.
According to Alibrandi, it’s best to wait roughly 60 to 90 minutes after waking up to start consuming caffeine. “This allows for the adenosine to get flushed out and allows your body to naturally wake up before you add in caffeine,” she says.
In addition to this, Alibrandi explains that some studies suggest that consuming coffee after eating breakfast may be beneficial for several reasons. “Recent discussions suggest that consuming coffee after breakfast, rather than before, may help moderate blood glucose levels and potentially extend the duration of a caffeine-induced ‘high,’” she says. “Blood glucose spikes influence factors like general functioning, appetite, and restlessness, all of which contribute to feelings of being energized, often associated with caffeine consumption.”
That said, more research is needed on the topic to conclusively determine this relationship.
“Beverages with higher caffeine concentrations, like espresso shots and energy drinks, are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting buzz,” Alibrandi says.
She explains that their smaller volume contributes to faster absorption compared to larger (by volume) drinks like coffee or tea (if no other caffeine has been consumed already). On the flip side, lower-caffeinated beverages may yield a milder and shorter-lasting effect, she adds.
That said, Alibrandi notes that individual tolerance, again, typically plays a huge role, with regular caffeine drinkers often needing higher doses to experience the same buzz. But if there’s one thing Alibrandi wants to stress it’s that moderation is key, especially when it comes to optimizing a caffeine buzz while minimizing negative effects like jitteriness and insomnia. In other words, more caffeine might not be the solution for everyone.
Alibrandi says getting adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing mindful caffeine consumption are also equally as important to further optimizing the effects of caffeine and duration of a buzz. However, to reiterate, more caffeine isn’t always the way to go.
“Consumption of high quantities [of caffeine] habitually may increase the likelihood of abuse of caffeine over time, further weakening the strength of a buzz,” she says.
Although your initial instinct to keep the buzz going may be to drink more caffeine, Alibrandi says you may want to think twice before refilling your cup for the zillionth time in a day. Indeed, more caffeine intake can equal a longer buzz, but it comes with a few drawbacks. “The more caffeine, the more adenosine receptors are blocked, which can result in a more pronounced stimulating effect,” Alibrandi explains.
Trevor Craig, a food safety expert and corporate director of technical training and consulting at Microbac Laboratories, also adds that the average half-life of caffeine can be anywhere from two to six hours. “This means that the more you have, the longer the effects, but again the harsher the downfall would be,” Craig says.
Not to mention, there’s only so much caffeine your body can handle, Alibrandi explains. “There’s a limit to how much caffeine your body can effectively process. When the enzymes in the liver reach their limit in metabolizing caffeine, further intake won’t enhance its effects,” she says.
In fact, she notes that repeated exposure to caffeine can make your body “down-regulate” or “desensitize” adenosine receptors in the brain, meaning their sensitivity to caffeine is diminished.
Plus, more caffeine intake can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort that can detract from the overall buzz, she says.
Benefits of coffee, according to an RD:
Rest and recovery is key.
When your energy stores are running low (like, really low), stretching out that much-needed caffeine buzz from your morning cuppa is a non-negotiable.
This is even more imperative if having more than one cup of coffee irritates your stomach (hi, endless hours of acid reflux). But according to food scientists, drinking more coffee isn’t necessarily the solution to get you through a mid-day slump. In fact, there are a few ways to hack your caffeine intake to keep that energy “high” going well past your first sip of the day.
Ahead, we’re sharing seven ways to stay as energized as possible while keeping your overall caffeine intake low.
First things first, why does coffee (or other caffeinated beverages) make you feel buzzed to begin with? According to Natalie Alibrandi, a London-based food scientist and CEO of Nali Consulting, it’s due to a chain reaction that occurs in your brain upon ingesting caffeine.
“The caffeine ‘buzz’ is created primarily through blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and drowsiness. Caffeine competes with adenosine for binding to its receptors in the brain, so instead we may feel increased alertness,” Alibrandi explains.
Aside from the effect caffeine has on the brain, Alibrandi says there are secondary effects it may have throughout the body, particularly on your central nervous system (CNS). “A stimulated CNS, [can lead] to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure implicated in the ‘buzz-like’ sensation,” she says.
Have jitters from too much caffeine? Alibrandi says caffeine’s stimulatory effects on the CNS are likely to blame. “Caffeine also stimulates adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. High adrenaline can lead to nervousness and jitteriness,” Alibrandi explains.
The length of a caffeine-induced buzz can vary from person to person, but Alibrandi says the effects of caffeine can start to kick in within just 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Meanwhile, the “peak buzz” will typically occur around the 30- to 60-minute mark post-consumption.
But you should only expect the effects of caffeine to last between three to six hours (at best). The big time gap is due to three main factors: how much caffeine is consumed, individual tolerance, and metabolism, Alibrandi says. Plus, she notes that caffeine tolerance can build up over time with regular consumption.
According to Alibrandi, one of the best ways to make your caffeine buzz last longer is to pair it with L-theanine, an amino acid known for its ability to help enhance alertness.
“To extend a caffeine ‘high,’ stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and consider combining caffeine with L-theanine, that [according to] research, synergizes with caffeine for a smoother and longer-lasting buzz, while reducing jitteriness,” she says.
Alibrandi notes that L-theanine is available via supplement form or can be found in caffeinated beverages like green tea.
While keeping in mind that consuming sugar in moderation is always important, Alibrandi says this pantry staple can potentially help prolong a caffeine buzz. “Some research suggests that sugar in energy drinks may enhance caffeine’s initial effects, prolonging alertness and subjective energy,” she says.
However, Alibrandi notes that this approach may not be optimal for overall health due to potential blood glucose spikes and caffeine crashes, aka the fatigue experienced after consuming too much caffeine.
“Drinking a caffeinated beverage over a longer period of time may help sustain a milder and more prolonged caffeine buzz compared to consuming it quickly all at once,” Alibrandi says. “This is because gradual intake allows for a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream, potentially reducing the risk of abrupt spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels,” she adds.
As such, slow and steady (caffeine intake) usually wins the race. But this, again, can vary depending on a person’s tolerance.
Although the influence of food on caffeine metabolism is generally considered minor compared to factors like genetics, liver function, and individual metabolism, there are a few nutrients that can potentially help prolong the effects of caffeine, Alibrandi says.
“Some foods, such as those high in antioxidants, fat, protein, and particularly foods rich in dietary fiber may have subtle effects on caffeine absorption and digestion due to their impact on gastric emptying and metabolism,” she says. But Alibrandi notes that scientific evidence supporting the significant influence of specific foods on caffeine metabolism is limited.
According to Alibrandi, it’s best to wait roughly 60 to 90 minutes after waking up to start consuming caffeine. “This allows for the adenosine to get flushed out and allows your body to naturally wake up before you add in caffeine,” she says.
In addition to this, Alibrandi explains that some studies suggest that consuming coffee after eating breakfast may be beneficial for several reasons. “Recent discussions suggest that consuming coffee after breakfast, rather than before, may help moderate blood glucose levels and potentially extend the duration of a caffeine-induced ‘high,’” she says. “Blood glucose spikes influence factors like general functioning, appetite, and restlessness, all of which contribute to feelings of being energized, often associated with caffeine consumption.”
That said, more research is needed on the topic to conclusively determine this relationship.
“Beverages with higher caffeine concentrations, like espresso shots and energy drinks, are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting buzz,” Alibrandi says.
She explains that their smaller volume contributes to faster absorption compared to larger (by volume) drinks like coffee or tea (if no other caffeine has been consumed already). On the flip side, lower-caffeinated beverages may yield a milder and shorter-lasting effect, she adds.
That said, Alibrandi notes that individual tolerance, again, typically plays a huge role, with regular caffeine drinkers often needing higher doses to experience the same buzz. But if there’s one thing Alibrandi wants to stress it’s that moderation is key, especially when it comes to optimizing a caffeine buzz while minimizing negative effects like jitteriness and insomnia. In other words, more caffeine might not be the solution for everyone.
Alibrandi says getting adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing mindful caffeine consumption are also equally as important to further optimizing the effects of caffeine and duration of a buzz. However, to reiterate, more caffeine isn’t always the way to go.
“Consumption of high quantities [of caffeine] habitually may increase the likelihood of abuse of caffeine over time, further weakening the strength of a buzz,” she says.
Although your initial instinct to keep the buzz going may be to drink more caffeine, Alibrandi says you may want to think twice before refilling your cup for the zillionth time in a day. Indeed, more caffeine intake can equal a longer buzz, but it comes with a few drawbacks. “The more caffeine, the more adenosine receptors are blocked, which can result in a more pronounced stimulating effect,” Alibrandi explains.
Trevor Craig, a food safety expert and corporate director of technical training and consulting at Microbac Laboratories, also adds that the average half-life of caffeine can be anywhere from two to six hours. “This means that the more you have, the longer the effects, but again the harsher the downfall would be,” Craig says.
Not to mention, there’s only so much caffeine your body can handle, Alibrandi explains. “There’s a limit to how much caffeine your body can effectively process. When the enzymes in the liver reach their limit in metabolizing caffeine, further intake won’t enhance its effects,” she says.
In fact, she notes that repeated exposure to caffeine can make your body “down-regulate” or “desensitize” adenosine receptors in the brain, meaning their sensitivity to caffeine is diminished.
Plus, more caffeine intake can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort that can detract from the overall buzz, she says.
Benefits of coffee, according to an RD:
Let’s just say, my morning coffee still gets its mushroom treatment.
When your energy stores are running low (like, really low), stretching out that much-needed caffeine buzz from your morning cuppa is a non-negotiable.
This is even more imperative if having more than one cup of coffee irritates your stomach (hi, endless hours of acid reflux). But according to food scientists, drinking more coffee isn’t necessarily the solution to get you through a mid-day slump. In fact, there are a few ways to hack your caffeine intake to keep that energy “high” going well past your first sip of the day.
Ahead, we’re sharing seven ways to stay as energized as possible while keeping your overall caffeine intake low.
First things first, why does coffee (or other caffeinated beverages) make you feel buzzed to begin with? According to Natalie Alibrandi, a London-based food scientist and CEO of Nali Consulting, it’s due to a chain reaction that occurs in your brain upon ingesting caffeine.
“The caffeine ‘buzz’ is created primarily through blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and drowsiness. Caffeine competes with adenosine for binding to its receptors in the brain, so instead we may feel increased alertness,” Alibrandi explains.
Aside from the effect caffeine has on the brain, Alibrandi says there are secondary effects it may have throughout the body, particularly on your central nervous system (CNS). “A stimulated CNS, [can lead] to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure implicated in the ‘buzz-like’ sensation,” she says.
Have jitters from too much caffeine? Alibrandi says caffeine’s stimulatory effects on the CNS are likely to blame. “Caffeine also stimulates adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. High adrenaline can lead to nervousness and jitteriness,” Alibrandi explains.
The length of a caffeine-induced buzz can vary from person to person, but Alibrandi says the effects of caffeine can start to kick in within just 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Meanwhile, the “peak buzz” will typically occur around the 30- to 60-minute mark post-consumption.
But you should only expect the effects of caffeine to last between three to six hours (at best). The big time gap is due to three main factors: how much caffeine is consumed, individual tolerance, and metabolism, Alibrandi says. Plus, she notes that caffeine tolerance can build up over time with regular consumption.
According to Alibrandi, one of the best ways to make your caffeine buzz last longer is to pair it with L-theanine, an amino acid known for its ability to help enhance alertness.
“To extend a caffeine ‘high,’ stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and consider combining caffeine with L-theanine, that [according to] research, synergizes with caffeine for a smoother and longer-lasting buzz, while reducing jitteriness,” she says.
Alibrandi notes that L-theanine is available via supplement form or can be found in caffeinated beverages like green tea.
While keeping in mind that consuming sugar in moderation is always important, Alibrandi says this pantry staple can potentially help prolong a caffeine buzz. “Some research suggests that sugar in energy drinks may enhance caffeine’s initial effects, prolonging alertness and subjective energy,” she says.
However, Alibrandi notes that this approach may not be optimal for overall health due to potential blood glucose spikes and caffeine crashes, aka the fatigue experienced after consuming too much caffeine.
“Drinking a caffeinated beverage over a longer period of time may help sustain a milder and more prolonged caffeine buzz compared to consuming it quickly all at once,” Alibrandi says. “This is because gradual intake allows for a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream, potentially reducing the risk of abrupt spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels,” she adds.
As such, slow and steady (caffeine intake) usually wins the race. But this, again, can vary depending on a person’s tolerance.
Although the influence of food on caffeine metabolism is generally considered minor compared to factors like genetics, liver function, and individual metabolism, there are a few nutrients that can potentially help prolong the effects of caffeine, Alibrandi says.
“Some foods, such as those high in antioxidants, fat, protein, and particularly foods rich in dietary fiber may have subtle effects on caffeine absorption and digestion due to their impact on gastric emptying and metabolism,” she says. But Alibrandi notes that scientific evidence supporting the significant influence of specific foods on caffeine metabolism is limited.
According to Alibrandi, it’s best to wait roughly 60 to 90 minutes after waking up to start consuming caffeine. “This allows for the adenosine to get flushed out and allows your body to naturally wake up before you add in caffeine,” she says.
In addition to this, Alibrandi explains that some studies suggest that consuming coffee after eating breakfast may be beneficial for several reasons. “Recent discussions suggest that consuming coffee after breakfast, rather than before, may help moderate blood glucose levels and potentially extend the duration of a caffeine-induced ‘high,’” she says. “Blood glucose spikes influence factors like general functioning, appetite, and restlessness, all of which contribute to feelings of being energized, often associated with caffeine consumption.”
That said, more research is needed on the topic to conclusively determine this relationship.
“Beverages with higher caffeine concentrations, like espresso shots and energy drinks, are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting buzz,” Alibrandi says.
She explains that their smaller volume contributes to faster absorption compared to larger (by volume) drinks like coffee or tea (if no other caffeine has been consumed already). On the flip side, lower-caffeinated beverages may yield a milder and shorter-lasting effect, she adds.
That said, Alibrandi notes that individual tolerance, again, typically plays a huge role, with regular caffeine drinkers often needing higher doses to experience the same buzz. But if there’s one thing Alibrandi wants to stress it’s that moderation is key, especially when it comes to optimizing a caffeine buzz while minimizing negative effects like jitteriness and insomnia. In other words, more caffeine might not be the solution for everyone.
Alibrandi says getting adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing mindful caffeine consumption are also equally as important to further optimizing the effects of caffeine and duration of a buzz. However, to reiterate, more caffeine isn’t always the way to go.
“Consumption of high quantities [of caffeine] habitually may increase the likelihood of abuse of caffeine over time, further weakening the strength of a buzz,” she says.
Although your initial instinct to keep the buzz going may be to drink more caffeine, Alibrandi says you may want to think twice before refilling your cup for the zillionth time in a day. Indeed, more caffeine intake can equal a longer buzz, but it comes with a few drawbacks. “The more caffeine, the more adenosine receptors are blocked, which can result in a more pronounced stimulating effect,” Alibrandi explains.
Trevor Craig, a food safety expert and corporate director of technical training and consulting at Microbac Laboratories, also adds that the average half-life of caffeine can be anywhere from two to six hours. “This means that the more you have, the longer the effects, but again the harsher the downfall would be,” Craig says.
Not to mention, there’s only so much caffeine your body can handle, Alibrandi explains. “There’s a limit to how much caffeine your body can effectively process. When the enzymes in the liver reach their limit in metabolizing caffeine, further intake won’t enhance its effects,” she says.
In fact, she notes that repeated exposure to caffeine can make your body “down-regulate” or “desensitize” adenosine receptors in the brain, meaning their sensitivity to caffeine is diminished.
Plus, more caffeine intake can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort that can detract from the overall buzz, she says.
Benefits of coffee, according to an RD:
Less time, more results.
When your energy stores are running low (like, really low), stretching out that much-needed caffeine buzz from your morning cuppa is a non-negotiable.
This is even more imperative if having more than one cup of coffee irritates your stomach (hi, endless hours of acid reflux). But according to food scientists, drinking more coffee isn’t necessarily the solution to get you through a mid-day slump. In fact, there are a few ways to hack your caffeine intake to keep that energy “high” going well past your first sip of the day.
Ahead, we’re sharing seven ways to stay as energized as possible while keeping your overall caffeine intake low.
First things first, why does coffee (or other caffeinated beverages) make you feel buzzed to begin with? According to Natalie Alibrandi, a London-based food scientist and CEO of Nali Consulting, it’s due to a chain reaction that occurs in your brain upon ingesting caffeine.
“The caffeine ‘buzz’ is created primarily through blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and drowsiness. Caffeine competes with adenosine for binding to its receptors in the brain, so instead we may feel increased alertness,” Alibrandi explains.
Aside from the effect caffeine has on the brain, Alibrandi says there are secondary effects it may have throughout the body, particularly on your central nervous system (CNS). “A stimulated CNS, [can lead] to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure implicated in the ‘buzz-like’ sensation,” she says.
Have jitters from too much caffeine? Alibrandi says caffeine’s stimulatory effects on the CNS are likely to blame. “Caffeine also stimulates adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. High adrenaline can lead to nervousness and jitteriness,” Alibrandi explains.
The length of a caffeine-induced buzz can vary from person to person, but Alibrandi says the effects of caffeine can start to kick in within just 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Meanwhile, the “peak buzz” will typically occur around the 30- to 60-minute mark post-consumption.
But you should only expect the effects of caffeine to last between three to six hours (at best). The big time gap is due to three main factors: how much caffeine is consumed, individual tolerance, and metabolism, Alibrandi says. Plus, she notes that caffeine tolerance can build up over time with regular consumption.
According to Alibrandi, one of the best ways to make your caffeine buzz last longer is to pair it with L-theanine, an amino acid known for its ability to help enhance alertness.
“To extend a caffeine ‘high,’ stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and consider combining caffeine with L-theanine, that [according to] research, synergizes with caffeine for a smoother and longer-lasting buzz, while reducing jitteriness,” she says.
Alibrandi notes that L-theanine is available via supplement form or can be found in caffeinated beverages like green tea.
While keeping in mind that consuming sugar in moderation is always important, Alibrandi says this pantry staple can potentially help prolong a caffeine buzz. “Some research suggests that sugar in energy drinks may enhance caffeine’s initial effects, prolonging alertness and subjective energy,” she says.
However, Alibrandi notes that this approach may not be optimal for overall health due to potential blood glucose spikes and caffeine crashes, aka the fatigue experienced after consuming too much caffeine.
“Drinking a caffeinated beverage over a longer period of time may help sustain a milder and more prolonged caffeine buzz compared to consuming it quickly all at once,” Alibrandi says. “This is because gradual intake allows for a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream, potentially reducing the risk of abrupt spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels,” she adds.
As such, slow and steady (caffeine intake) usually wins the race. But this, again, can vary depending on a person’s tolerance.
Although the influence of food on caffeine metabolism is generally considered minor compared to factors like genetics, liver function, and individual metabolism, there are a few nutrients that can potentially help prolong the effects of caffeine, Alibrandi says.
“Some foods, such as those high in antioxidants, fat, protein, and particularly foods rich in dietary fiber may have subtle effects on caffeine absorption and digestion due to their impact on gastric emptying and metabolism,” she says. But Alibrandi notes that scientific evidence supporting the significant influence of specific foods on caffeine metabolism is limited.
According to Alibrandi, it’s best to wait roughly 60 to 90 minutes after waking up to start consuming caffeine. “This allows for the adenosine to get flushed out and allows your body to naturally wake up before you add in caffeine,” she says.
In addition to this, Alibrandi explains that some studies suggest that consuming coffee after eating breakfast may be beneficial for several reasons. “Recent discussions suggest that consuming coffee after breakfast, rather than before, may help moderate blood glucose levels and potentially extend the duration of a caffeine-induced ‘high,’” she says. “Blood glucose spikes influence factors like general functioning, appetite, and restlessness, all of which contribute to feelings of being energized, often associated with caffeine consumption.”
That said, more research is needed on the topic to conclusively determine this relationship.
“Beverages with higher caffeine concentrations, like espresso shots and energy drinks, are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting buzz,” Alibrandi says.
She explains that their smaller volume contributes to faster absorption compared to larger (by volume) drinks like coffee or tea (if no other caffeine has been consumed already). On the flip side, lower-caffeinated beverages may yield a milder and shorter-lasting effect, she adds.
That said, Alibrandi notes that individual tolerance, again, typically plays a huge role, with regular caffeine drinkers often needing higher doses to experience the same buzz. But if there’s one thing Alibrandi wants to stress it’s that moderation is key, especially when it comes to optimizing a caffeine buzz while minimizing negative effects like jitteriness and insomnia. In other words, more caffeine might not be the solution for everyone.
Alibrandi says getting adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing mindful caffeine consumption are also equally as important to further optimizing the effects of caffeine and duration of a buzz. However, to reiterate, more caffeine isn’t always the way to go.
“Consumption of high quantities [of caffeine] habitually may increase the likelihood of abuse of caffeine over time, further weakening the strength of a buzz,” she says.
Although your initial instinct to keep the buzz going may be to drink more caffeine, Alibrandi says you may want to think twice before refilling your cup for the zillionth time in a day. Indeed, more caffeine intake can equal a longer buzz, but it comes with a few drawbacks. “The more caffeine, the more adenosine receptors are blocked, which can result in a more pronounced stimulating effect,” Alibrandi explains.
Trevor Craig, a food safety expert and corporate director of technical training and consulting at Microbac Laboratories, also adds that the average half-life of caffeine can be anywhere from two to six hours. “This means that the more you have, the longer the effects, but again the harsher the downfall would be,” Craig says.
Not to mention, there’s only so much caffeine your body can handle, Alibrandi explains. “There’s a limit to how much caffeine your body can effectively process. When the enzymes in the liver reach their limit in metabolizing caffeine, further intake won’t enhance its effects,” she says.
In fact, she notes that repeated exposure to caffeine can make your body “down-regulate” or “desensitize” adenosine receptors in the brain, meaning their sensitivity to caffeine is diminished.
Plus, more caffeine intake can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort that can detract from the overall buzz, she says.
Benefits of coffee, according to an RD:
Unlike contour palettes or pigments, contour sticks take the guesswork out of achieving a sculpted makeup look. They add definition to the face with as little as a simple swipe or two of product along the jawline, hollows of the cheeks, or on the temples—all you have to do is blend. Here, we spoke with […]
When your energy stores are running low (like, really low), stretching out that much-needed caffeine buzz from your morning cuppa is a non-negotiable.
This is even more imperative if having more than one cup of coffee irritates your stomach (hi, endless hours of acid reflux). But according to food scientists, drinking more coffee isn’t necessarily the solution to get you through a mid-day slump. In fact, there are a few ways to hack your caffeine intake to keep that energy “high” going well past your first sip of the day.
Ahead, we’re sharing seven ways to stay as energized as possible while keeping your overall caffeine intake low.
First things first, why does coffee (or other caffeinated beverages) make you feel buzzed to begin with? According to Natalie Alibrandi, a London-based food scientist and CEO of Nali Consulting, it’s due to a chain reaction that occurs in your brain upon ingesting caffeine.
“The caffeine ‘buzz’ is created primarily through blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and drowsiness. Caffeine competes with adenosine for binding to its receptors in the brain, so instead we may feel increased alertness,” Alibrandi explains.
Aside from the effect caffeine has on the brain, Alibrandi says there are secondary effects it may have throughout the body, particularly on your central nervous system (CNS). “A stimulated CNS, [can lead] to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure implicated in the ‘buzz-like’ sensation,” she says.
Have jitters from too much caffeine? Alibrandi says caffeine’s stimulatory effects on the CNS are likely to blame. “Caffeine also stimulates adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. High adrenaline can lead to nervousness and jitteriness,” Alibrandi explains.
The length of a caffeine-induced buzz can vary from person to person, but Alibrandi says the effects of caffeine can start to kick in within just 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Meanwhile, the “peak buzz” will typically occur around the 30- to 60-minute mark post-consumption.
But you should only expect the effects of caffeine to last between three to six hours (at best). The big time gap is due to three main factors: how much caffeine is consumed, individual tolerance, and metabolism, Alibrandi says. Plus, she notes that caffeine tolerance can build up over time with regular consumption.
According to Alibrandi, one of the best ways to make your caffeine buzz last longer is to pair it with L-theanine, an amino acid known for its ability to help enhance alertness.
“To extend a caffeine ‘high,’ stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and consider combining caffeine with L-theanine, that [according to] research, synergizes with caffeine for a smoother and longer-lasting buzz, while reducing jitteriness,” she says.
Alibrandi notes that L-theanine is available via supplement form or can be found in caffeinated beverages like green tea.
While keeping in mind that consuming sugar in moderation is always important, Alibrandi says this pantry staple can potentially help prolong a caffeine buzz. “Some research suggests that sugar in energy drinks may enhance caffeine’s initial effects, prolonging alertness and subjective energy,” she says.
However, Alibrandi notes that this approach may not be optimal for overall health due to potential blood glucose spikes and caffeine crashes, aka the fatigue experienced after consuming too much caffeine.
“Drinking a caffeinated beverage over a longer period of time may help sustain a milder and more prolonged caffeine buzz compared to consuming it quickly all at once,” Alibrandi says. “This is because gradual intake allows for a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream, potentially reducing the risk of abrupt spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels,” she adds.
As such, slow and steady (caffeine intake) usually wins the race. But this, again, can vary depending on a person’s tolerance.
Although the influence of food on caffeine metabolism is generally considered minor compared to factors like genetics, liver function, and individual metabolism, there are a few nutrients that can potentially help prolong the effects of caffeine, Alibrandi says.
“Some foods, such as those high in antioxidants, fat, protein, and particularly foods rich in dietary fiber may have subtle effects on caffeine absorption and digestion due to their impact on gastric emptying and metabolism,” she says. But Alibrandi notes that scientific evidence supporting the significant influence of specific foods on caffeine metabolism is limited.
According to Alibrandi, it’s best to wait roughly 60 to 90 minutes after waking up to start consuming caffeine. “This allows for the adenosine to get flushed out and allows your body to naturally wake up before you add in caffeine,” she says.
In addition to this, Alibrandi explains that some studies suggest that consuming coffee after eating breakfast may be beneficial for several reasons. “Recent discussions suggest that consuming coffee after breakfast, rather than before, may help moderate blood glucose levels and potentially extend the duration of a caffeine-induced ‘high,’” she says. “Blood glucose spikes influence factors like general functioning, appetite, and restlessness, all of which contribute to feelings of being energized, often associated with caffeine consumption.”
That said, more research is needed on the topic to conclusively determine this relationship.
“Beverages with higher caffeine concentrations, like espresso shots and energy drinks, are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting buzz,” Alibrandi says.
She explains that their smaller volume contributes to faster absorption compared to larger (by volume) drinks like coffee or tea (if no other caffeine has been consumed already). On the flip side, lower-caffeinated beverages may yield a milder and shorter-lasting effect, she adds.
That said, Alibrandi notes that individual tolerance, again, typically plays a huge role, with regular caffeine drinkers often needing higher doses to experience the same buzz. But if there’s one thing Alibrandi wants to stress it’s that moderation is key, especially when it comes to optimizing a caffeine buzz while minimizing negative effects like jitteriness and insomnia. In other words, more caffeine might not be the solution for everyone.
Alibrandi says getting adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing mindful caffeine consumption are also equally as important to further optimizing the effects of caffeine and duration of a buzz. However, to reiterate, more caffeine isn’t always the way to go.
“Consumption of high quantities [of caffeine] habitually may increase the likelihood of abuse of caffeine over time, further weakening the strength of a buzz,” she says.
Although your initial instinct to keep the buzz going may be to drink more caffeine, Alibrandi says you may want to think twice before refilling your cup for the zillionth time in a day. Indeed, more caffeine intake can equal a longer buzz, but it comes with a few drawbacks. “The more caffeine, the more adenosine receptors are blocked, which can result in a more pronounced stimulating effect,” Alibrandi explains.
Trevor Craig, a food safety expert and corporate director of technical training and consulting at Microbac Laboratories, also adds that the average half-life of caffeine can be anywhere from two to six hours. “This means that the more you have, the longer the effects, but again the harsher the downfall would be,” Craig says.
Not to mention, there’s only so much caffeine your body can handle, Alibrandi explains. “There’s a limit to how much caffeine your body can effectively process. When the enzymes in the liver reach their limit in metabolizing caffeine, further intake won’t enhance its effects,” she says.
In fact, she notes that repeated exposure to caffeine can make your body “down-regulate” or “desensitize” adenosine receptors in the brain, meaning their sensitivity to caffeine is diminished.
Plus, more caffeine intake can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort that can detract from the overall buzz, she says.
Benefits of coffee, according to an RD:
Because life is all about balance.
When your energy stores are running low (like, really low), stretching out that much-needed caffeine buzz from your morning cuppa is a non-negotiable.
This is even more imperative if having more than one cup of coffee irritates your stomach (hi, endless hours of acid reflux). But according to food scientists, drinking more coffee isn’t necessarily the solution to get you through a mid-day slump. In fact, there are a few ways to hack your caffeine intake to keep that energy “high” going well past your first sip of the day.
Ahead, we’re sharing seven ways to stay as energized as possible while keeping your overall caffeine intake low.
First things first, why does coffee (or other caffeinated beverages) make you feel buzzed to begin with? According to Natalie Alibrandi, a London-based food scientist and CEO of Nali Consulting, it’s due to a chain reaction that occurs in your brain upon ingesting caffeine.
“The caffeine ‘buzz’ is created primarily through blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and drowsiness. Caffeine competes with adenosine for binding to its receptors in the brain, so instead we may feel increased alertness,” Alibrandi explains.
Aside from the effect caffeine has on the brain, Alibrandi says there are secondary effects it may have throughout the body, particularly on your central nervous system (CNS). “A stimulated CNS, [can lead] to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure implicated in the ‘buzz-like’ sensation,” she says.
Have jitters from too much caffeine? Alibrandi says caffeine’s stimulatory effects on the CNS are likely to blame. “Caffeine also stimulates adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. High adrenaline can lead to nervousness and jitteriness,” Alibrandi explains.
The length of a caffeine-induced buzz can vary from person to person, but Alibrandi says the effects of caffeine can start to kick in within just 15 to 45 minutes after consumption. Meanwhile, the “peak buzz” will typically occur around the 30- to 60-minute mark post-consumption.
But you should only expect the effects of caffeine to last between three to six hours (at best). The big time gap is due to three main factors: how much caffeine is consumed, individual tolerance, and metabolism, Alibrandi says. Plus, she notes that caffeine tolerance can build up over time with regular consumption.
According to Alibrandi, one of the best ways to make your caffeine buzz last longer is to pair it with L-theanine, an amino acid known for its ability to help enhance alertness.
“To extend a caffeine ‘high,’ stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and consider combining caffeine with L-theanine, that [according to] research, synergizes with caffeine for a smoother and longer-lasting buzz, while reducing jitteriness,” she says.
Alibrandi notes that L-theanine is available via supplement form or can be found in caffeinated beverages like green tea.
While keeping in mind that consuming sugar in moderation is always important, Alibrandi says this pantry staple can potentially help prolong a caffeine buzz. “Some research suggests that sugar in energy drinks may enhance caffeine’s initial effects, prolonging alertness and subjective energy,” she says.
However, Alibrandi notes that this approach may not be optimal for overall health due to potential blood glucose spikes and caffeine crashes, aka the fatigue experienced after consuming too much caffeine.
“Drinking a caffeinated beverage over a longer period of time may help sustain a milder and more prolonged caffeine buzz compared to consuming it quickly all at once,” Alibrandi says. “This is because gradual intake allows for a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream, potentially reducing the risk of abrupt spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels,” she adds.
As such, slow and steady (caffeine intake) usually wins the race. But this, again, can vary depending on a person’s tolerance.
Although the influence of food on caffeine metabolism is generally considered minor compared to factors like genetics, liver function, and individual metabolism, there are a few nutrients that can potentially help prolong the effects of caffeine, Alibrandi says.
“Some foods, such as those high in antioxidants, fat, protein, and particularly foods rich in dietary fiber may have subtle effects on caffeine absorption and digestion due to their impact on gastric emptying and metabolism,” she says. But Alibrandi notes that scientific evidence supporting the significant influence of specific foods on caffeine metabolism is limited.
According to Alibrandi, it’s best to wait roughly 60 to 90 minutes after waking up to start consuming caffeine. “This allows for the adenosine to get flushed out and allows your body to naturally wake up before you add in caffeine,” she says.
In addition to this, Alibrandi explains that some studies suggest that consuming coffee after eating breakfast may be beneficial for several reasons. “Recent discussions suggest that consuming coffee after breakfast, rather than before, may help moderate blood glucose levels and potentially extend the duration of a caffeine-induced ‘high,’” she says. “Blood glucose spikes influence factors like general functioning, appetite, and restlessness, all of which contribute to feelings of being energized, often associated with caffeine consumption.”
That said, more research is needed on the topic to conclusively determine this relationship.
“Beverages with higher caffeine concentrations, like espresso shots and energy drinks, are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting buzz,” Alibrandi says.
She explains that their smaller volume contributes to faster absorption compared to larger (by volume) drinks like coffee or tea (if no other caffeine has been consumed already). On the flip side, lower-caffeinated beverages may yield a milder and shorter-lasting effect, she adds.
That said, Alibrandi notes that individual tolerance, again, typically plays a huge role, with regular caffeine drinkers often needing higher doses to experience the same buzz. But if there’s one thing Alibrandi wants to stress it’s that moderation is key, especially when it comes to optimizing a caffeine buzz while minimizing negative effects like jitteriness and insomnia. In other words, more caffeine might not be the solution for everyone.
Alibrandi says getting adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing mindful caffeine consumption are also equally as important to further optimizing the effects of caffeine and duration of a buzz. However, to reiterate, more caffeine isn’t always the way to go.
“Consumption of high quantities [of caffeine] habitually may increase the likelihood of abuse of caffeine over time, further weakening the strength of a buzz,” she says.
Although your initial instinct to keep the buzz going may be to drink more caffeine, Alibrandi says you may want to think twice before refilling your cup for the zillionth time in a day. Indeed, more caffeine intake can equal a longer buzz, but it comes with a few drawbacks. “The more caffeine, the more adenosine receptors are blocked, which can result in a more pronounced stimulating effect,” Alibrandi explains.
Trevor Craig, a food safety expert and corporate director of technical training and consulting at Microbac Laboratories, also adds that the average half-life of caffeine can be anywhere from two to six hours. “This means that the more you have, the longer the effects, but again the harsher the downfall would be,” Craig says.
Not to mention, there’s only so much caffeine your body can handle, Alibrandi explains. “There’s a limit to how much caffeine your body can effectively process. When the enzymes in the liver reach their limit in metabolizing caffeine, further intake won’t enhance its effects,” she says.
In fact, she notes that repeated exposure to caffeine can make your body “down-regulate” or “desensitize” adenosine receptors in the brain, meaning their sensitivity to caffeine is diminished.
Plus, more caffeine intake can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal discomfort that can detract from the overall buzz, she says.
Benefits of coffee, according to an RD: