Study of Acute Effect of Caffeine on Cognition among Adults- An Exploratory Intervention Trial

Abstract

Introduction/Background: Information processing has substantial role in performing intellectual activities
such as thinking, reasoning, remembering, imagining, or learning. Caffeine being a CNS stimulant improves
mental performance, especially on alertness, attention, concentration and learning depending on the quantity
of intake. In the present study, an attempt is made to study the effect of caffeine on cognitive processing in
healthy individuals.
Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted in 50 subjects at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College
& Research Institute. MOCA questionnaire was utilized to assess the level of cognition of each subject.
Visual reaction time, auditory reaction time and critical fusion frequency prior and after consumption of 75
mg of caffeine in 200 ml of milk.
Results: Both visual and auditory reaction time were significantly reduced (p<0.001) after intake of caffeine
intake. The ability of the subject to appreciate the flickering light stimuli to be steady (critical flicker fusion
frequency) was significantly improved 15% after caffeine intake.
Conclusion: Decrease in visual and auditory reaction and increase in critical flicker fusion frequency values
indicate caffeine increases alertness thereby it may enhances performance efficiency in reasoning, planning,
judgment, organizing, concept formation, and problem solving.