Keywords
Café
Fisiología
Metabolismo
Termogénesis
How to Cite
Abstract
Caffeine is a natural central nervous system stimulant belonging to the group of methylxanthines and is the most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world. This review synthesizes recent evidence on its use as a natural stimulant and modulator of metabolism. Its main mechanisms of action include the antagonism of adenosine A1 and A₂A, receptors, as well as secondary mechanisms such as inhibition of phosphodiesterases, activation of AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase) and the regulation of intracellular calcium release. At the metabolic level, caffeine promotes lipolysis, fat oxidation and thermogenesis, as well as improving glucose uptake and mitochondrial function, which positively contributes to body composition and the prevention of metabolic diseases. At the physical and cognitive level, moderate doses of 3 to 6 mg kg 1 or between 100 and 300 mg show ergogenic effects and improvements in attention, especially under fatigue conditions. However, its consumption is not without risks, as it may have adverse dose-dependent effects, drug interactions and limitations in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, children and people with cardiovascular diseases. Overall, the evidence supports informed and moderate use of caffeine, highlighting the need for personalized approaches and long-term clinical studies to confirm its sustained effects and explore possible epigenetic mechanisms.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Jhunior Marcía-Fuentes, Brandy Nathaly Turcios-Matute, Marvin Andrés Alvarado-Hernandez, Alejandro Maldonado, Walter Orellana-Canales, Dani Ochoa-Cervantez, Alejandro Barahona-Herrera