Whether it’s from coffee or chocolate, most
people get caffeine every
day. Caffeine is the drug found in coffee that can be dangerous if too much is
consumed. It occurs naturally in more than 60 plants including coffee beans and
tea leaves. Man-made caffeine is sometimes added to food, energy drinks, and
medicines such as prescription diet pills.
It is absorbed through the digestive system much faster than naturally
occurring caffeine, providing a quicker spike and a quicker crash. Have you
ever noticed a difference in your blood sugar after drinking a big cup of coffee
or an energy drink? Caffeine can indeed have an affect on your blood
glucose levels causing higher fluctuations. It stimulates cortisol secretion
that directs the cells to resist insulin’s signals to absorb and store blood
glucose. This is common for diabetics who take too much caffeine which leads to
addiction.
What is
Caffeine Addiction?
Caffeine addiction is
defined as a compulsion to take caffeine leading to withdrawal symptoms when
trying to quit. From headaches to loss of energy, caffeine withdrawal can have
serious effects on the body. An addiction to caffeine starts
as a result of an enjoyment of that extra boost of energy after taking
caffeinated drinks. The problem is that the body becomes accustomed to this
artificial energy and builds a tolerance that means you need more and more
coffee in order to achieve the same increase in energy. Some of the major signs and symptoms of an addiction to caffeine
include:
- Inability to stop drinking products with caffeine
- Cravings for caffeine
- Heightened heart rate
- Insomnia and anxiety
- Tremors or shaking
How to Curb Caffeine Addiction
Addressing caffeine addiction can
be challenging. An abrupt decrease in caffeine may cause withdrawal symptoms,
such as headaches, fatigue, irritability, difficulty focusing on tasks etc. To
change your caffeine habit, try these tips:
- Start paying attention to how much caffeine you're getting from foods and beverages, including energy drinks.
- When making coffee, brew it for less time. This cuts down on its caffeine content or choose herbal teas that don't have caffeine.
- Get more sleep, rest, and relaxation. Make time to fulfil your emotional, physical and mental needs.
- Incorporate exercise into your daily routine. It’s a natural stimulant for your body and central nervous system.
