Tommie Springer

Caffeine may not be as highly addictive as smoking cigarettes, taking drugs or drinking alcohol, but over time, the human body increases its tolerance for caffeinated products. It is only when you have developed a high tolerance for caffeine that you begin to experience its side effects, some which are extremely dangerous and may be fatal to your health in the long run. Maintaining your caffeine consumption is important, but reducing your caffeine intake gradually is even more important.

Majority of the products that contain caffeine are coffee, tea leaves, cocoa or chocolate, soda, and specific over-the-counter-medications such as appetite stimulants, cold medicine and pain relievers—all products that are easy for us to consume every single day. Because these products are inexpensive and are so readily available to us, caffeine is the most widely consumed stimulant in the world. If you find yourself consuming daily doses of highly caffeinated products and believe that it is an essential routine for you to be able to function properly, then you have most likely developed a strong addiction for caffeine.

If you take excessive amounts of caffeine, it is likely that you are currently experiencing or will experience unpleasant symptoms such as palpitations, anxiety, depression, reduced fertility, insomnia, irritability, Diabetes and Osteoporosis.

By reducing our caffeine intake, you can leave a healthier lifestyle by lessening your stress, depression and anxieties, sleeping soundly and more often, and increasing your levels of energy. However, it is important that you reduce your intake gradually, so as not to undergo a sudden caffeine withdrawal.

Sudden caffeine withdrawal normally results in uncomfortable side effects such as migraines, fatigue, irritability or depression, the inability to concentrate for long periods of time, and symptoms similar to having the flu—muscle pains, vomiting, and nausea. These symptoms can be experienced after 12 to 24 hours from consuming caffeine, and this withdrawal can last for as long as two to nine days, the peak intensity of the withdrawal being about 24 to 48 hours after the abstinence from the caffeine.

For one who wishes to break the caffeine habit, it is strongly suggested by health professionals to do so over a period of a few weeks instead of abruptly. By substituting caffeinated beverages with decaffeinated or non-caffeinated products, one may reduce or eliminate the chances of experiencing withdrawal symptoms altogether. Also, find yourself a replacement for caffeine. When you feel a sudden urge for a cup of coffee or a can of soda, drink a lot of water, a cup of decaffeinated coffee, or a glass of some juice instead.

As opposed to vitamins and minerals which have a suggested daily requirement of consumption, there is no such thing as a daily requirement for caffeine, since caffeine contains zero amounts of vitamins and minerals. However, consuming moderate amounts of caffeine is not a health risk. For those who consume excessive amounts of caffeine though, gradually reducing your caffeine intake is essential. You do not have to completely eliminate caffeine from your diet, but remember to take things in moderation.