What’s the straight dope on taking caffeine before cardio to aid in fat burning by having a thermogenic effect or even by a less direct effect such as giving one “more energy”? Google searches have given me conflicting answers. Thanks.
IANAD, but I’ve previously read that a caffeine, aspirin, ephedra (this was back when ephedra was still available over the counter; a natural alternative like ma huang might be an effective substitute) stack was a potent fat burning catalyst prior to doing cardio.
Having said that, I don’t recall the ratio that should be used, nor am I knowledgable enough to advise of possible counterindications (i.e. heart health).
Nevertheless, I’ve personally used caffeine pills prior to cardio, with no ill effects. It doesn’t seem to hurt, and I figure it might help.
Well, I always drink Cuban coffee (espresso with sugar), about 30 minutes before a workout. Then again, I drink Cuban coffee 8 or 9 times a day, so I might not be a good data point.