The Complex Relationship Between Caffeine, Sleep, and Individual Response
According to sports and nutrition expert Alvaro Piqueras, the impact of caffeine on sleep is often more psychological than physiological. While caffeine can affect sleep, he suggests that reports of sleeplessness after midday coffee consumption might potentially be heavily influenced by the placebo effect. “We are capable of falling asleep when the effect of caffeine has already worn off many hours ago,” Piqueras notes, highlighting the power of suggestion.
he further emphasizes the highly individual nature of caffeine’s effects, stating, “I think caffeine has a lot of placebo. We call it ergogenic aid, but it is something very social and cultural, and that means that each person is affected in a different way.” Some individuals may experience no disruption to their sleep even after consuming espresso in the evening, while others are more sensitive.
Despite the potential benefits of caffeine for fat oxidation when well-tolerated, Piqueras stresses the importance of personalized guidance. He advises, “It is advisable to have the opinion and support of a health and nutrition professional if we want to take caffeine or any other supplement.”
Piqueras brings a wealth of experience to his insights, having worked in journalism for over 20 years across various national media outlets including Diario As, ABC, Men’s Health, and runner’s World. He holds a degree in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of Alicante and continues to stay abreast of the latest research in fitness, nutrition, and health. He actively avoids using generative AI in his professional writing, preferring the craft honed over two decades of experience.
