Scientists have discovered unexpected side effect of drinking coffee at night

Tengrinews.kz – Evening caffeine consumption can reduce self-control and lead to more impulsive behavior, according to biologists from the University of Texas at El Paso, citing Gazeta.Ru.

In a series of experiments, scientists studied the effects of caffeine on the behavior of fruit flies (Drosophila) depending on the time of day and sex. After administering caffeine, researchers assessed the insects’ ability to suppress impulsive reactions — such as stopping movement when faced with a sudden gust of air.

The scientists explained that under normal conditions, fruit flies stop flying when encountering a significant obstacle.

It turned out that nighttime caffeine significantly lowered self-control in the flies, especially in females: despite the discomfort, they continued moving actively. In contrast, daytime caffeine did not produce this effect.

Although caffeine concentration was the same in both males and females, their reactions differed. According to the researchers, this points to the possible influence of genetic or physiological factors, not just hormonal ones.

“Drosophila melanogaster is an excellent model for studying complex behavior due to its genetic and neural similarities to humans,” said Professor Ken-An Han of the University of Texas at El Paso.

The researchers suggest that the findings may also be relevant to humans — particularly women working night shifts or drinking coffee before bed. Those at risk may include medical workers, military personnel, and other professionals whose jobs require high levels of concentration and self-control at night.