Ask Mary RSS

Your personal nutritionist
By Mary Hartley, RD
Director of Nutrition

How can I stop drinking caffeine?
Asked by anonymous on Oct 06, 2008 in Emotional & Behavioral Issues



Everyday I want to try, but then I go get a cup of coffee.  It makes me numb and I feel as though I am missing out on feeling and living life to the fullest.


Answer

The most common caffeine withdrawal symptoms are headache, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. They start a day or two after complete abstinence and last from two days to one week or longer.  To lessen symptom severity, cut down on caffeine gradually over several weeks.  Drop your intake to zero at a time when you don’t have to be especially alert.  Watch out for hidden sources of caffeine in soda, tea and medicines because they prolong the withdrawal process.  Your energy will return after your body adjusts to caffeine-free living.  To read more about caffeine withdrawal, visit About.com



Advertisement
Calorie Count Challenge
Calorie Count Challenge
Ask your Friends:
Can you guess which one has fewer calories?
Start