There is evidence that since caffeine increases cortisol it does indeed affect the brain. Paramahansa Yogananda told us this about 100 years ago. See the above lesson on this thread.
What is Cortisol?
Cortisol is your body’s primary stress hormone. It is produced by the adrenal glands, which are located on top of your kidneys. This hormone plays a crucial role in helping you respond to stress.
When you encounter stress, cortisol levels increase. This helps your body react quickly to threats. It manages your body’s use of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, affecting your metabolism.
Cortisol also helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It ensures that these stay within a normal range. This is vital for your overall health.
Your central nervous system is involved in cortisol production.
Cortisol interacts with certain parts of your brain, affecting mood and cognition. It is also linked to the sleep-wake cycle and circadian rhythms, which are your internal body clocks.
Balanced cortisol levels are essential for a healthy life. Too much or too little cortisol can lead to all kinds of health issues.
Stress Hormone Hinders Memory Recall
https://www.cogneurosociety.org/cortisol_memory/