In a study conducted by Portuguese researchers, the question of whether aspects other than caffeine in coffee contribute to the feeling of alertness in the morning was explored. The researchers aimed to understand the brain mechanisms and functional connectivity patterns associated with the claim that people need coffee to get ready in the morning.
The study involved 83 participants who were regular coffee drinkers, and they underwent MRI scans to analyze their brain activity. Among the participants, 47 had their brain activity scanned before and after consuming their morning coffee, while the remaining 36 participants received caffeine diluted in hot water instead of coffee.
By comparing the MRI scans, the researchers aimed to determine if there were any differences in brain activity related to the consumption of coffee versus caffeine alone. This allowed them to investigate whether factors such as the smell or taste of coffee played a role in alertness, in addition to caffeine.
The study’s findings could shed light on the specific brain mechanisms involved in the morning ritual of consuming coffee and provide insights into why people often associate it with increased alertness and readiness for the day.
The study involved 83 participants who were regular coffee drinkers, and they underwent MRI scans to analyze their brain activity. Among the participants, 47 had their brain activity scanned before and after consuming their morning coffee, while the remaining 36 participants received caffeine diluted in hot water instead of coffee.
By comparing the MRI scans, the researchers aimed to determine if there were any differences in brain activity related to the consumption of coffee versus caffeine alone. This allowed them to investigate whether factors such as the smell or taste of coffee played a role in alertness, in addition to caffeine.
The study’s findings could shed light on the specific brain mechanisms involved in the morning ritual of consuming coffee and provide insights into why people often associate it with increased alertness and readiness for the day.