While caffeine may not be life-threatening like other substance or alcohol abuse, people are pretty dependent on it.
Caffeine withdrawal symptoms.
Meaning whencaffeine consumption stops, blood flow to the brain increases4.
Even then, you probably rely on it to give you energy every now and then.
Several studies have shown thatcaffeine can increase alertness and decrease fatigue5in both large and moderate doses.
Changes in mood
Because of its stimulating properties,caffeine increases dopamine sensitivity6in the brain.
When you suddenly decrease your intake, dopamine sensitivity will also drop.
This can lead to a depressed, anxious, or irritable mood, Selhub explains.
Difficulty concentrating
Similar to how caffeine affects energy levels, it can also boost mental focus.
In one study, sleep-deprived individuals who consumed caffeine were able toimprove concentration and accuracy7in performing tasks.
Instead of relying on coffee to concentrate, Selhub recommends getting quality sleep to aid your cognitive function.
You may also consider sipping on anadaptogenic tea, which might help improve concentration.
These are common symptoms of withdrawal from any kind of addiction.
Constipation
In many cases,drinking coffee can make you poop.
To avoid this, you might start the day with a cup of hot water with lemon.
Dizziness
Dizziness is commonly associated with headaches10and migraines.
How long does caffeine withdrawal last?
How to deal with caffeine withdrawal symptoms.
There are a couple of ways you’ve got the option to do this effectively.
Selhub recommends taking away half a cup of caffeine every week for about six weeks.
“you might replace regular coffee with decaf, but I recommend drinking more water,” she says.
Eventually, your caffeine intake will be so low, you should be able to quit altogether.
From there, consider switching to herbal tea if you still want something warm to sip on.
One study showsexercise may help manage symptoms of caffeine withdrawal, as well.
Selhub explains that exercise can increase dopamine and serotonin levels, which may have dropped with your caffeine decrease.
Getting quality sleep and spending time in nature can have similar positive effects.
Selhub also recommends eating a balanced diet, full of antioxidants.
“A little bit of dark chocolate might also help,” she says.
Now that’s a recommendation we can get behind.
Bottom line.
Caffeine affects everyone differently.
In fact, for some, it can provide a variety of health benefits.
Thesecaffeine alternativesmay help fill the void.
