Can Coffee Be a Downer?

If we think of caffeine as a stimulant, an upper, withdrawal symptoms will feel like a downer. Depending on the amount of caffeine and your personal tolerance level, mild withdrawal symptoms can include headache, generalized fatigue, decreased energy, increased drowsiness, and a depressed mood.

Can coffee act as a depressant?

Research has suggested that dopamine may mediate some of the behavioural effects of caffeine. After drinking a cup of coffee, caffeine is absorbed into the blood stream and transported around the body to the brain. In the brain, adenosine acts as a central nervous system depressant and promotes feelings of tiredness.

Can coffee have an opposite effect?

Coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages are known to boost energy levels. However, they can also have the opposite effect by leading to rebound fatigue after the caffeine leaves your system.