TechGD

As I was navigating through one of my favorite websites on the net, HowStuffWorks, I ran across this gem about energy drinks. I will be the first to admit I have a thing for a nice cold Red Bull, it is probably border line addiction. However after reading this article it seems my addiction could boil down to simple caffeine and sugar addiction.

Caffeine works by blocking the affects of adenosine, a brain chemical involved in sleep. When caffeine blocks adenosine, it causes neurons in the brain to fire. Thinking the body is in an emergency, the pituitary gland initiates the body’s “fight or flight” response by releasing adrenaline. This hormone makes the heart beat faster and the eyes dilate. It also causes the liver to release extra sugar into the bloodstream for energy. Caffeine affects the levels of dopamine, a chemical in the brain’s pleasure center. All of these physical responses make you feel as though you have more energy.

Since these drinks are mainly water, sugar, carbonation, and flavoring, I might try switching to green tea, which still contains caffeine but at least its good caffeine right?