Question

CW3 Clark is at the local AAFES and is returning from a long drive back to Fort Rucker from Minnesota. He is feeling tired and decides he needs a "pick me up" and purchases an energy drink. Which of the following is the most appropriate reason for his action?

a) To improve his memory
b) To increase his blood pressure
c) To alleviate altitude sickness
d) To combat fatigue

Answer 1

CW3 Clark is purchasing an energy drink to combat fatigue during his travels, which is in line with the known effects of caffeine on reducing tiredness. Caffeine can enhance endurance but is more effective in those who are not regular caffeine consumers. Damage to the nervous system is likely to affect the fight-or-flight response due to its reliance on the sympathetic nervous system. The correct option is d.

Step-by-step explanation:

CW3 Clark is purchasing an energy drink after a long drive to help him stay alert during his travels. The most appropriate reason for his action would be d) To combat fatigue.

Energy drinks are known for their stimulant properties, primarily due to caffeine, which can help to temporarily ward off tiredness and restore alertness when one is feeling fatigued.

Scientific research suggests that caffeine can improve endurance and increase energy available during exercise, but these effects are more pronounced in individuals who do not regularly consume caffeine. It's also noted that the body can quickly adapt to caffeine, becoming "caffeine-naive" within about 1-3 days of abstinence.

The fight-or-flight response is an acute stress reaction that involves the sympathetic nervous system and the adrenal medulla, which could be impacted by damage to nerve pathways involved in this response.

Lastly, the reference to the crew team highlights the fact that physical exertion can increase levels of euphoriant neurochemicals, which enhance feelings of well-being and can contribute to the 'runner's high' that athletes sometimes experience during intense exercise. The correct option is d.