Your genes, sleep quality, and even your coffee timing could be to blame.

But strangely, after drinking that coffee, youre even more tired than before.

Whats up with that?

Freelancer businesswoman tired after working in a coffee shop

Itssupposedto keep you alert.

So why does it seem to have the opposite effect on some people?

Curious about this caffeine contradiction, we asked the experts.

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registered dietitian and senior regulatory specialist at Physician’s Choice

But there are ways to perk up if you get that post-caffeine energy drop.

Lets break it down.

That means one cup of joe might not give you the same kick it used to.

close up of person drinking a green smoothie that may cause their poop to be green

Instead of feeling a jolt of energy, you might feel…nothing.

And if youdrink coffee regularly, your brain might actually make more of thoseadenosine receptorsover time.

This could leave you even more sensitive to adenosines sleepy effects once caffeine is no longer blocking the receptors.

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Underlying sleep problems

Sometimes feeling sleepy after coffee is a clue to a deeper problem.

Dehydration

Caffeine can have a milddiuretic effect, meaning it can increase how often you pee.

And guess whats a common symptom of dehydration?Fatigue.

cup of matcha green tea sitting on a wooden ledge

registered dietitian and senior regulatory specialist at Physician’s Choice

While sweet coffee can feel like a treat, it can also set you up for a sugar crash.

Adding significant amounts of sugar can cause blood sugar spikes followed by crashes, Brownstein says.

A sugar crash is when your blood glucose drops below normal, otherwise medically known as hypoglycemia.

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You might experience lowenergy levelsand feel sleepy with that crash.

Once it wears off, you might feel more drained than before that cup of joe.

Breaking this cycle often means taking a hard look at when (and how much) caffeine youre consuming.

Woman drinking a protein meal replacement shake in the kitchen

These withdrawal symptoms can kick in just 12 to 24 hours after reducing your caffeine intake.

Common symptoms include headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and a general foggy feeling.

Fast caffeine metabolism

Heres something else to consider: your genes.

Some people are just born with genes that process caffeine super quickly, Brownstein explains.

Your provider will be able to order diagnostic tests, evaluate your symptoms, and recommend treatment if needed.

But the fix doesnt have to be complicated, as there are ways to boost your energy without caffeine.

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