The coffee and energy drink industry has exploded in the past 10 to 15 years. Think of companies like Starbucks, Red Bull, Monster, or other common names. They have made millions on us needing a boost in the morning, middle of the day, or at night. Why is that? People are trying to work longer and sleep less. Many seem to feel like sleep is limiting their productivity. Is that really true?
Well, scientists starting studying this and many have found that people who consistently get at least 7 hours in 1 stretch per night are more productive than people who do not. There are even cultures, such as Mexico, who have happily taken a short nap in the middle of the afternoon before going back to work and stayed very productive. So, are the caffeinated drinks really helping us? Some argue yes, some argue no. We tend to fall on the side that says caffeine is not helping us as much as we hope it is. If you are getting at least 7 hours of sleep per night, but you want a caffeinated drink, then go for it. But if you need that caffeine every day just to keep yourself running, then I would suggest cutting back and getting more sleep.
Caffeine is a drug. It’s not a dangerous drug and many of the foods where caffeine naturally occurs have many good health qualities. But like any other drug, your body can become dependent on it. Listen to your body and let it rest when it needs it instead of forcing it to keep going with less sleep. I’m sure you will find yourself needing the caffeine less and much more productive.