200 mg of caffeine 'enhanced memory'

From this, the researchers found that subjects who took the caffeine were better at identifying

pictures that were similar, compared with participants who took the placebo.

However, the researchers note that both groups were able to accurately distinguish whether

pictures were old or new.

New research suggests that consuming 200 mg of caffeine a day may boost long-term memory.

The team conducted further experiments using 100 mg and 300 mg doses of caffeine. They found

that performance was better after the 200 mg dose, compared with the 100 mg dose, but there was

no improvement after the 300 mg of caffeine, compared with 200 mg.

kobserve the enhancing effect of caffeine on consolidation of memory," the study authors write.

The team also found that memory performance was not improved if subjects were given caffeine 1

hour before carrying out the picture identification test.

They investigators say there are many possibilities as to how caffeine may enhance long-term

memory.

For example, they say it may block a molecule called adenosine, preventing it from stopping the

function of norepinephrine - a hormone that has been shown to have positive effects on memory.

They note that further research should be conducted to better understand the mechanisms by

which caffeine affects long-term memory.

They add:

"Given the widespread use of caffeine and the growing interest in its effects both as a cognitive

enhancer and as a neuroprotectant, these questions are of critical importance."

Potential benefits and risks of caffeine consumption

According to the latest figures from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the average

American consumes 300 mg of caffeine a day. The main sources of the compound are coffee, tea

and soft drinks.

Many studies have suggested that caffeine offers health benefits. Last year, Medical News Today

reported on a study suggesting that caffeinated drinks may reduce the risk of liver disease, while

another study says drinking 2-4 cups of coffee a day may reduce suicide risk.

But it is not all good news. One study suggests that the stimulant is able to disrupt sleep patterns

hours after consuming it, while another proposes that caffeine from energy drinks may alter heart

function.

Written by Honor Whiteman