Caffeine Consumption among Young Athletes and Their Perception in Relation to Performance

Abstract

Background: Caffeine intake is common among adolescents especially young athletes for many reasons. Many young adolescents and athletes had mixed perceptions of caffeine safety. Aims: The aim of present study was to estimate mean daily caffeine consumption among young athletes, identify different caffeinated products commonly consumed by them, assess their perception towards caffeinated products in relation to athletic performance. Methods: A cross sectional approach using a predesigned interview questionnaire to collect data from 420 adolescent athletes, aged 13-18 years of both sexes, recruited from different sports was followed. Results : The mean caffeine intake from all sources (frequently cola drinks) was 47.3 ± 54.2 mg/day (0.9 ± 1.3 mg/kg/day). Total daily caffeine intake was positively correlated with training load (p<0.001). More than half (57.8%) of young athletes who took supplements or caffeinated beverages were advised to do so by a coach. Improvement of athletic performance, increase attention, and improvement of body shape were the common reasons for supplements and caffeinated beverages intake. Around 40% of young athletes perceived that intake of caffeinated beverages before training improves energy and attention, respectively during training. While 20.5% agreed that they reduce tension before training or competitions. Conclusion: The mean caffeine intake from all sources was considered safe. There is a positive relationship between total daily caffeine intake and perception that intake of caffeinated beverages before training improves energy and attention during training, and that they reduce the tension before training. Although, caffeine intake was within safe levels, young athletes should be aware of different sources of it to avoid negative side effects of its high intake.