Health science research poster · HOSA · Junior year
Caffeine consumption and perceived alertness in high school students
A survey study of 78 high school students comparing self-reported alertness and cognition across groups with different levels of caffeine consumption. Presented as a research poster through HOSA – Future Health Professionals, placing in the top 10 in the state.
- 78 student participants
- Top 10 in Utah, HOSA
Question
Caffeine is the most widely used stimulant among students. Do students who consume more of it actually report feeling more alert and focused, or not?
The chemistry
Caffeine (C8H10N4O2) is shaped enough like adenosine to fit adenosine receptors in the brain without activating them. Adenosine builds up while you are awake and signals tiredness; by blocking its receptors, caffeine masks that signal rather than adding energy.
Approach
78 high school students reported their typical caffeine intake and their perceived alertness and cognition. Responses were grouped by consumption level and the groups' reported alertness was compared.