Caffeine in chewing gum A
Fast and reliable action: the effect begins already on chewing
Citable fact
«Caffeine in chewing gum» — evidence level A. Dosage: 200-300 mg of caffeine in chewing gum (usually 2-5 pieces depending on the content). A guideline for an athlete is 3-6 mg per kg of body weight, but not above 400 mg per day. Source: PMID 35239468, permanent link to the source in the list below.
How it works
Caffeine is an adenosine receptor antagonist. Adenosine accumulates during exercise and inhibits nervous system excitation; by blocking its receptors, caffeine reduces the perception of effort and increases neuromuscular activation. When chewed, caffeine is absorbed through the oral mucosa and partially bypasses first-pass hepatic metabolism, so the peak blood concentration occurs faster than with tablets and drinks. Hence the practical value of the form: it can be taken right before the start.
Dosage and intake
200-300 mg of caffeine in chewing gum (usually 2-5 pieces depending on the content). A guideline for an athlete is 3-6 mg per kg of body weight, but not above 400 mg per day
5-10 minutes before the start - it is the rapid onset of action that distinguishes chewing gum from capsules. On long distances a repeat dose is possible
Forms
Caffeine chewing gum, usually 50-100 mg per piece. The advantages are rapid absorption and precise dosing; the disadvantages are the taste, irritation of the oral mucosa with frequent use and the risk of exceeding the dose without noticing
What is confirmed
- Improves endurance performance and reduces the perception of effort
- The onset of action is significantly faster than with capsules and drinks
- Convenient in situations where water is not available - before the start and during a long race
- Allows precise dosing of servings
Adverse effects and limitations
- Raises heart rate and blood pressure - a risk in cardiovascular disease
- Insomnia when taken in the second half of the day, especially in slow caffeine metabolizers
- Doses above 400 mg per day cause anxiety, tremor, palpitations and stomach upset; regular intake reduces the effect due to tolerance, and abrupt withdrawal causes headache
- Frequent chewing may irritate the oral mucosa and cause stomach discomfort; sleep disturbances are possible when taken throughout the day
Interactions
- With other stimulants (ephedra, synephrine, yohimbine) - dangerous summation of the load on the heart
- With drugs metabolized through CYP1A2 and with oral contraceptives - a change in concentration and slower caffeine elimination
- With alcohol - masking of the signs of intoxication
Who must not use it
- Under 18 years: Caffeine in sports doses is not recommended for children and adolescents
- Pregnancy and lactation: Limit to 200 mg per day from all sources; sports doses are unacceptable
- Cardiovascular disease, arrhythmias, hypertension - contraindicated
- Anxiety disorders, panic attacks - contraindicated
- Insomnia - take only in the first half of the day
- Gastroesophageal reflux, peptic ulcer disease - caution
- Seizure disorders - high doses are not recommended
- Taking drugs with a narrow therapeutic range - consult a physician
Sources
- Effects of caffeine chewing gum supplementation on exercise performance: A systematic review and meta-analysis · Barreto G, Loureiro LMR, Reis CEG · European journal of sport science, 2023 · PMID 35239468
- International society of sports nutrition position stand: caffeine and exercise performance · Guest NS, VanDusseldorp TA, Nelson MT · Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 2021 · PMID 33388079
See also
Comparisons
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