Science, Federal Policy, Direct Advocacy, and Future Policy: Audience Perception on the Impact of Intense Caffeinated Beverages on the Human Neuromuscular System.

Background Caffeine, the world’s most widely consumed psychoactive substance, modulates neuromuscular function, enhancing reaction time, muscle contraction, and endurance at moderate doses, but provoking tremors, fatigue, and coordination deficits at high intake. Beyond physiology, public understanding of these effects is increasingly mediated by video-based content, intertwining scientific knowledge with perception, communication, and policy influence. Objective This study explores how audiences interpret the neuromuscular impact of intense caffeinated beverages through digital media, investigating how narrative framing shapes comprehension, emotional response, and engagement, and how these perceptions align with biomedical evidence and regulatory guidance. Methods Twenty-three student projects analyzing videos from TED-Ed, Institute of Human Anatomy, Doctor Mike, Dartmouth Health, and High Spirit Pharmacist were assessed using qualitative content and sentiment analysis via the Communalytic tool. Scientific accuracy, tone, and audience reactions were examined, contextualized by peer-reviewed literature and authoritative health sources (FDA, CDC, Mayo Clinic, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2023). Results Audiences universally recognized caffeine’s action as an adenosine receptor antagonist and understood dose-dependent effects relative to the FDA’s 400 mg/day guideline. Perceptions varied by beverage: matcha and cacao were highly favorable, coffee neutral, and soda and energy drinks elicited concern. Engagement correlated with framing: evidence-based videos promoted constructive discourse, whereas promotional content triggered polarized sentiment. Moderate caffeine (≤ 6 mg/kg/day) enhanced neuromuscular performance; excessive intake (> 8 mg/kg/day) induced fatigue, tremors, and receptor desensitization. Conclusions Audience perception is co-shaped by physiology and media framing. Translating neuromuscular science into effective public understanding requires strategic science communication, advocacy, and policy alignment. This research underscores the need for integrative approaches bridging evidence, media, and regulatory frameworks to guide safe caffeine consumption and health literacy.