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Using Caffeine to Optimize Mental & Physical Performance

Huberman Lab

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Caffeine, Adrenaline: How They Affect Memory

Ingesting caffeine before engaging in a memory task or learning can enhance mental performance and benefit dopamine and acetylcholine levels. Additionally, spiking adrenaline and other catecholamines after learning greatly improves memory retention. This practice of stimulating adrenaline through methods like cold water immersion has been used for centuries. Controlled adrenaline spikes can also be achieved by consuming caffeine after studying. Personal anecdotes and research support the notion that abstaining from caffeine during learning, followed by its consumption afterwards, significantly enhances memory. This is because memory systems in the brain are influenced by catecholamines, such as dopamine and adrenaline, which are released during surprising or impactful events. Using caffeine at the end of a learning session can therefore boost memory for the information learned.

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