From: [S--p--m] at [usa.pipeline.com](Snappy Tom)
Date: 27 Jun 1995 23:40:47 GMT
Subject: Re: Caffeine and cycling

In article <3spul2$[1 js] at [nnrp.ucs.ubc.ca]> 
[j--n] at [unixg.ubc.ca] (Jennifer Morrison)  said: 
 
 
>I read somewhere that caffeine is supposed to be beneficial  
>to long, training bike rides, since it aids in fat metabolism. 
>So when is the ideal time to drink coffee for this to work 
>effectively, eg. before the ride or during the ride?  Has  
>anyone tried this?  How effective is this anyways?  Do you 
>ride any faster than without the caffeine?  I do worry about 
>diuretic effects of caffeine. 
 
 
Jenn, 
 
In the June 1995 issue of Bicycling I found the following from Beth Carton,
M.P.H, R.D.: 
 
"Caffeine Enables your body to burn more fatty acids (fat) in proportion to
muscle glycogen (glucose or sugar) which saves some blood sugar for later
in the ride... 
 
"The suggested dosage is about 5mg of caffine per kilo of body weight for
someone who is physically conditioned and practiced at using caffeine in
this way.....this means about 1.2 cups of coffee per 100 pounds of body
weight. 
 
"Caffeine should be taken about an hour before the ride begins. But for
perceived benefits such as feeling more energetic and alert during a ride,
you may want small doses periodically.  It can provide a lift within 10
minutes. 
 
"Because caffeine is a dieuretic, you may need to relieve yourself more
often....This can lead to dehydration, so be sure you drink frequently when
using caffeine as a performance enhancer." 
 
I hope this helps. 
 
-- 
Snappy Tom--Chillin' in NYC 
Snap on wit yo' bad self! 
 
[s--p--m] at [usa.pipeline.com]