CAFFEINE
Caffeine can be a huge help in getting us in shape, or when misused, a stumbling block in the way towards our health and fitness goals. I’m sure we all know someone who’s so addicted to it they can hardly move in the morning without a few cups of coffee don’t we? This is bad news and not the way to get fit and healthy.
This begs the question – what exactly is the best way to use Coffee? No problem, let’s take a look!
What’s The Perfect Dose?
Now if you’re aiming to use caffeine as a fat loss tool and pre-workout stimulant 200-400mg three times a day is a good dose for most of us. Be sure to take one dose about 45 minutes before you train if you would like that extra burst of energy to power you through a hard workout.
Personally, I never take any at all after dinner since I train in the morning or afternoon and late doses seem to disrupt my sleep schedule more often than not. You may or may not have the same concerns as I’m slightly Coffee sensitive.
Thoughts On Sources.
If you are looking to strictly monitor your caffeine intake to be able to track your results caffeine supplements are by far the way to go. It’s difficult to determine how much Coffee you are taking in from things like coffee, tea and soft drinks. This doesn’t mean you have to give up your morning coffee, estimating that dose and being more strict with your others is a method many use (myself included) quite successfully.
Take Breaks From Coffee Use.
Take at least a day off a week and a week off every few months if you would like to keep your bodies ability to make the best use of Coffee up to par. If not you are likely to dampen it’s effects which can spiral into needing higher doses and eventually enter the realm of health risks. Let’s not forget while generally safe in high amounts caffeine does bring health danger. At over 10 grams it can even kill! This is a serious substance that needs to be used smartly and safely.
Safely Stack It.
Be cautious of some of the herbal fat loss products which are simply caffeine being marketed under a different name. If you should take these with your normal caffeine use going unchanged you can quickly experience some of the negatives of Coffee overdose. Here’s some of the more common one on the market today: Guarana, Yerba Mate, Xanthine, Green Tea, Kola Nut to name a few. There’s plenty more too.
Caffeine Dose is Body Weight Dependent.
When you start losing big amounts of weight, if that’s your goal, be sure to lower your dose of caffeine accordingly. It’s very body weight dose dependent. This also means if you are 220lb guy and you and your 120lb girl friend are both taking the same amount something is seriously wrong. My guess is she’s taking way too much, so lighten up a bit for safety’s sake!
Used smartly caffeine is priceless. Just remember this game is all about looking great and being healthy too. Always err on the side of caution!