Science explains your brain on coffee -- and if it's possible to overdose

This helpful video explains why you are chemically dependent on caffeine

Published August 29, 2014 9:18PM (EDT)

  (<a href='http://www.istockphoto.com/user_view.php?id=2265665'>DonNichols</a> via <a href='http://www.istockphoto.com/'>iStock</a>/Salon)
(DonNichols via iStock/Salon)

You've probably heard some variation of the phrase, "I can't think without my morning coffee." Worse yet, you might actually be unable to function without that caffeine boost.

But what about coffee -- and caffeine -- makes you feel alert, and ready for your day? Well it has a lot to do with the binding of caffeine to certain receptors in your brain, which as AsapSCIENCE explains, is "great for you if you're tired." However, your brain's response may make you sleepy, and trigger the need for more coffee. Watch below to find out why:

h/t AsapSCIENCE


By Sarah Gray

Sarah Gray is an assistant editor at Salon, focusing on innovation. Follow @sarahhhgray or email sgray@salon.com.

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