Emma Miller
In a new scientific paper, Canadian researchers have tested how caffeine affects the processing of high-quality visual information by the relevant human organs. Caffeine increases attentiveness and accuracy in detecting moving targets, as well as improves reaction time.
According to scientists at the University of Waterloo (Canada), visual acuity refers to a person’s ability to detect and recognize small details and can be measured in static (stationary) or dynamic (moving) conditions. Dynamic visual acuity is especially important in many everyday activities. In a new scientific paper, researchers tested how caffeine improves visual information processing.
The study involved 21 volunteers. On one day, they took a caffeine capsule (at a dose of four milligrams per kilogram), and on the other day, a placebo capsule. Using a computerized test developed and validated at the University of Waterloo, each participant’s dynamic visual acuity skills were measured one hour and one hour after taking caffeine.
Participants who took the caffeine capsules showed significantly greater accuracy and faster speed in identifying small moving targets. Eye movement speed and contrast sensitivity, which affect dynamic visual acuity, were also sensitive to caffeine intake.
