To some of us, caffeine is the jumpstart we need to feel semi-human. For others, it’s the addiction we can’t quite kick.
Let’s be upfront from the get-go and say, this is not a tirade against caffeine, it’s merely to give you all the facts and help you make decisions about the amount you consume.
If you haven’t already taken the leap of faith, here are the facts about what happens to your body when you cut caffeine:
You’ll feel crap for a little while…
But it’s only temporary! During this time you might feel the following symptoms, which is a sign your body is withdrawing from physiological effects:
- Headache
- Irritability
- Lack of concentration
- Poor sleep (ironically – but this will pass)
- Nausea
- Aches and pains
Caffeine works on the central nervous system. If you’re having more than two coffees a day, your body may have become dependent, so depriving it suddenly will cause withdrawal.
These symptoms can last from two days to a week.
Also read: 5 Ways to Detox From Your Weekend
Our top tips for cutting caffeine are:
- Tip 1: Make a gradual cut. Start with lowering your consumption down to 1 cup a day (yes, I’m looking at you 2 or 3 a day people).
- Tip 2: Drink lots of water with lemon.
- Tip 3: Avoid added caffeine in products such as protein bars, energy waters and sunflower seeds.
The benefits are endless
Once you get over the speedbump of withdrawal, the positive results can be as follows;
- More energy and decreased anxiety
- Cost savings
- Lower calorie intake depending on how much you consume daily.
- You’ll sleep better
Not ready to make the jump?
Don’t worry, you don’t have to!
There are many ways to cut down on your caffeine intake without completely cutting it from your life. Here are our favourites:
- Say NO to soft drinks!
- If you’re going to have some coffee, have it first thing in the morning, before you train and ideally not after 3pm
- Black or Green tea are great alternatives because they have less caffeine
