Caffeine improves cognitive performance after strenuous physical exercise

The effects of three carbohydrate electrolyte solutions (CES) containing di fferent amounts of caffeine on cognitive function and the combined effects of these drinks and exercise on cognitive functions were investigated in a double-blind, cross-over study On five separate occasions, fifteen enduranc e trained male athletes (23.3 years) received water placebo, CES placebo (6 8.8 g/l), and three CES drinks containing low, medium and high dosages of c affeine (150, 225 and 320 mg/l). Each occasion, 8 ml/kg of the drink was co nsumed before - and 6 ml/kg of the drink was consumed during an all-out 1 h our time trial on a bicycle ergometer, Cognitive (attentional, psychomotor, and memory) tests were carried out immediately before and immediately afte r exercise. Before exercise, long term memory was improved by CES plus low dose caffeine compared to both placebos. Immediately after exercise, all co gnitive functions were improved by CES plus low- and medium-dose caffeine c ompared to placebo. These results comprise the first practical demonstratio n of the cognition improving effects of low amounts of caffeine in CES afte r strenuous physical exercise.