Meet Your New Workout Buddy: Caffeine

As posted on Yahoo By Korin Miller | Cosmopolitan


Recently, we noticed a growing trend in Hollywood. We've spotted loads of celebs like Mila Kunis, Nicole Richie, and Molly Sims leaving the gym with what appears to be a cup of coffee in their hand.


We get the whole idea of sipping on some java before you work out-studies have shown it can help you exercise harder and longer than usual. But won't it dehydrate you after a sweat fest?


Nope, says Cosmo Radio health expert Jennifer Wider, M.D. Yes, coffee is a diuretic that can lead to dehydration, she says, but it doesn't dry out the average person unless you drink a ton of it.


Not only that, having a post-workout brew can actually be good for you. Studies have found that caffeine can decrease muscle pain after you work out. Dr. Wider says the theory is that caffeine blocks a biochemical that plays a role in the pain cycle, so you don't feel achy or sore after a tough gym session.


Another recent study published in the American Psychological Society found that post-exercise caffeine can also help your muscles refuel if you pair it with a carb, like a banana.


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