Close Menu
Zeninform
  • Life
  • Health
  • Food
  • Home
  • Tech
  • Car
  • Science
Facebook Pinterest
Zeninform
  • Life
  • Health
  • Food
  • Home
  • Tech
  • Car
  • Science
Facebook Telegram
Zeninform
Home»Food»Scientists Discover How Adding Sugar to Coffee Enhances Its Effects
Food

Scientists Discover How Adding Sugar to Coffee Enhances Its Effects

Aria BlakeBy Aria BlakeDecember 20, 20243 Mins Read
Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email Reddit Copy Link

A study conducted by researchers from the Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences at Hiroshima University has revealed that coffee sweetened with sugar or artificial sweeteners has a significantly stronger effect on biological rhythms than unsweetened coffee. These findings, published in the journal Science of Food, mark a significant step in understanding how caffeine impacts the human body.

How Does Sugar Amplify Caffeine’s Effects?

Caffeine is well-known for influencing circadian rhythms—the internal clock regulating sleep and wake cycles. However, the study demonstrated that adding natural sugar or artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin, amplifies this effect. Mice consuming caffeine mixed with sweetened water exhibited a dramatic shift in their circadian rhythms, extending their activity and sleep cycles to 26–30 hours.

The Experiment

In the study, researchers provided mice with two types of beverages:

  1. Sweetened water containing 0.1% caffeine and either 1% sucrose or 0.1% saccharin.
  2. Unsweetened water containing 0.1% caffeine.

Both groups consumed similar amounts of liquid, but the mice drinking sweetened water showed longer activity periods and notable changes in their usual circadian rhythms. Remarkably, some mice even shifted from nocturnal to diurnal behavior—a rare occurrence.

Independence from Light

One of the experiment’s key findings was that these changes in biological rhythms occurred even in constant darkness. This indicates that the effects of caffeine combined with sweeteners operate independently of signals from the body’s central “clock”—the suprachiasmatic nucleus in the brain.

The Mechanism Behind the Effect

Researchers suggest that the combination of caffeine and sugar sends conflicting signals to the body:

  • Activation of the reward system: Sweetened beverages trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation.
  • Disruption of biological processes: The sweetened drink alters the normal sleep-wake cycle, disrupting the body’s natural rhythms.
See also  What to Add to Coffee to Lose Weight Faster: An Unusual but Effective Twist

Implications for Humans

Although the experiment was conducted on mice, researchers plan to investigate whether similar effects occur in humans. If proven, this could explain why coffee with sugar often produces a more pronounced boost in energy and alertness than caffeine alone. Additionally, it highlights how dietary habits may influence circadian rhythms and overall health.

Conclusion

The combination of caffeine and sweeteners—both natural and artificial—has a profound impact on biological rhythms. This discovery could have significant implications for individuals who rely on coffee to stay energized. At the same time, it underscores the importance of further research into the relationship between dietary choices, stimulants, and our internal “biological clock.”

For more information, refer to the original study in Science of Food.

Related

Adding Sugar to Coffee caffeine coffee Sugar sweetened
Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email

Related Posts

How to Fry Without Oil: The Secret to a Crispy Crust Without Extra Fat

March 10, 2025

Foods Best Purchased Frozen

January 16, 2025

How to Enhance the Flavor of Chicken Soup: Tips from Seasoned Cooks

January 16, 2025

Read..

Health

Emergency Situation: What Happens If You Accidentally Swallow Glass?

October 26, 2024
Life

Zodiac Signs and Longevity: Who Lives the Longest?

November 19, 2024
Life

The Most Popular Symbols in Coffee Grounds Reading and Their Meanings

November 1, 2024
Home

DIY Cleaning Hack: What Happens When You Mix Toothpaste and Vinegar

November 13, 2024
Facebook Pinterest Telegram
  • Life
  • Health
  • Food
  • Home
  • Tech
  • Car
  • Science
© 2025 Zeninform.com

ZenInform.com is your go-to destination for insightful articles on food, health, and lifestyle. Discover delicious recipes, expert nutrition advice, and wellness tips to enhance your daily life. Stay informed about the latest trends in healthy living and find inspiration to lead a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Explore ZenInform.com and embark on a journey towards better health and well-being.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.