<p>Caffeine — it’s the world’s favorite stimulant and a daily ritual for millions. But what does it <em>really</em> do to your brain? In this episode of <em>The Nourished Brain Podcast</em>, we unpack the science behind caffeine’s short- and long-term effects on focus, mood, sleep, and brain health.</p><p>Learn how caffeine interacts with adenosine, the molecule that builds sleep pressure, and why older adults metabolize caffeine more slowly, leading to longer-lasting effects. We’ll also explore the latest research showing that moderate coffee and tea intake may lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and depression — but that too much can backfire on mood and sleep.</p><p>🔍 <strong>You’ll discover:</strong></p><ul><li><p>How caffeine really boosts alertness — and why that 3pm cup might keep you up at night</p></li><li><p>The role of genetics, age, and kidney function in how your body clears caffeine</p></li><li><p>What large meta-analyses reveal about coffee and tea’s protective effects on cognitive decline</p></li><li><p>Why caffeine’s effect on mood is <em>bidirectional</em> — and how to find your personal sweet spot</p></li></ul><p>Whether you’re a latte lover or trying to cut back, this episode helps you understand how caffeine impacts your brain — for better and for worse.</p><p>---------</p><p>💡 Have a question you’d like me to cover on the podcast? Or interested in joining as a guest? Looking for a speaker for your event, workshop, or conference? Send me a message at ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.</p><p>🌱 Want to explore 1:1 nutrition therapy?Learn more here: <a href="https://www.foodandmoodnutritiontherapy.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">⁠⁠foodandmoodnutritiontherapy.com⁠⁠</a>.</p><p>🧠 Stay up to date on the latest nutrition research for brain and mental health. Subscribe to the Brain Food Digest: <a href="https://brainfooddigest.beehiiv.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">⁠⁠brainfooddigest.beehiiv.com⁠⁠</a>.</p>