Back to database
4.5/5 Strong evidence

Performance evidence brief

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, energy drinks, tablets, and many pre-workouts. People usually use it for alertness, focus, endurance, power, and reduced perceived effort.

View evidence-matched option on Amazon Amazon Associate disclosure: we earn from qualifying purchases.

Acute aid for endurance, muscular endurance, power, alertness, and perceived effort in many trained users.

Strong evidence Potential health risk strength / endurance / focus 7 linked sources Content audit 2026-05-16

Headline Finding

Umbrella review: 21 meta-analyses; benefits across tasks, stronger for aerobic performance.

Dose Context

Common research range is 3-6 mg/kg about 60 minutes pre-training; many users should start lower.

Important Caveat

Sleep disruption, anxiety, blood pressure response, and tolerance can outweigh the performance benefit.

Source Drawer

Linked Research

7 papers and evidence links - audit 2026-05-16
  1. Position stand ISSN caffeine position stand
  2. Review PubMed record
  3. Meta-analysis Caffeine umbrella review
  4. Meta-analysis Resistance power meta-analysis
  5. Meta-analysis Endurance time-trial meta-analysis
  6. Meta-analysis CYP1A2 genotype meta-analysis
  7. Meta-analysis Carbohydrate/caffeine meta-analysis

How To Read This Rating

The score reflects evidence that the supplement does its stated job. Some jobs are direct, such as strength, endurance, or recovery; others are indirect, such as sleep, mood, appetite, or health support. A real effect can still receive a cautious practical rating when dose, safety, product quality, or audience fit remain uncertain.

Spot An Evidence Issue?

Send the disputed claim, source link, and why it changes the practical verdict. Corrections that materially affect the claim, dose, caveat, or rating are prioritized.

Report a source or rating issue