Diet & Fitness 

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The Ultimate Energy Drink?

Yes, it does seem that the ingestion of caffeine can enhance exercise and sports performance, and this area of research has produced quite compelling results. In a landmark study by American doctor Dave Costill in the 1970s, a group of cyclists were able to ride for 21 minutes longer post-caffeine ingestion. In fact, caffeine's efficacy as a performance-enhancing drug has led the International Olympic Committee to consider urinary levels of caffeine exceeding 12 micrograms/ml as worthy of a ban. You'd have to knock back eight cups of coffee to achieve such a target. Assuming you're not competing at the top level, a strong cup of coffee an hour before that fun run or charity bike ride might just help you through. Even if it isn't physiologically easier, studies have shown that people perceive their effort to be less intense after caffeine ingestion. In other words, you're trying as hard but you don't feel as if you are. However, caffeine can also dehydrate you, so don't overdo it and be sure to drink water regularly during your workouts.

Why not chat to other iVillagers about healthy foods on the Eating For Health message board. Take a look at some of the LIVE discussions happening now on the board:

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