I remember the day I decided to quit caffeine. My morning tea had become more of a dependency than a delight. The perpetual feelings of highs and lows were taking a toll on my productivity and overall well-being. In a world that runs on coffee, tea and energy drinks, the decision to quit caffeine can feel dreadful. But, at the end of the day, it is rewarding. Quitting caffeine is not just about removing our favourite drinks from our lifestyle but gradually managing our withdrawal symptoms and finding new sources of energy. If you are thinking about quitting caffeine, you are not alone. This guide can help acknowledge what the pitfalls are and make your journey a little smoother. Here are five common mistakes to avoid while quitting caffeine.
Also Read:How Many Cups of Coffee Should You Drink Daily? We Find Out!
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Here Are 5 Mistakes To Avoid While Quitting Caffeine
1. Quitting Cold Turkey
Many people aim to quit caffeine suddenly thinking it's the fastest way to break the habit. While it may work for some, going cold turkey can lead to several withdrawal symptoms like headaches, irritability, and extreme fatigue. Instead of leaving caffeine abruptly, gradually decrease your caffeine intake. For example, if you drink three cups of coffee a day, bring it down to two, and eventually to one. Better still, you can switch to drinking decaffeinated versions of coffee. This gradual decrease can allow your body to adjust to a new routine.
2. Not Being Mindful Of Withdrawal Symptoms
If you consume a lot of caffeine, then underestimating the intensity of withdrawal symptoms can lead to a quick relapse. As mentioned above, caffeine withdrawal can lead to mood swings, drowsiness, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. To tackle this, plan your caffeine reduction during a time when you can afford to go slow, preferably on a weekend or during a less demanding period at work. Having painkillers can also help you manage the symptoms as they arise.
3. Overlooking Hidden Caffeine Sources
Just cutting down on tea and coffee won't help you in this journey. In fact, you need to identify hidden sources of caffeine as well. Chocolates, certain medications, or even soft drinks can contain caffeine. To prevent yourself from derailing from your journey, read on to know all the potential sources of caffeine. Skim through food labels mindfully as they might contain caffeine. Choose caffeine-free alternatives to ensure you are not consuming it indirectly.
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4. Not Hydrating Yourself
Hydrating yourself from time to time is important to have a healthy body. But did you know that not drinking enough water while reducing your caffeine dependency can amp up your withdrawal symptoms? Caffeine is a diuretic and quitting it can change your hydration levels. In fact, make a conscious effort to drink more water throughout the day. Set water hydration reminders for every half an hour. Always carry a reusable bottle with you. Staying well-hydrated can help reduce headaches and fatigue. Herbal teas, coconut water, and other hydration beverages can help support your body through this transition.
5. Not Changing Your Lifestyle
Nothing changes if nothing changes. Don't use caffeine as an excuse for your poor sleep, lack of exercise or an unhealthy diet. In fact, focus on improving your overall lifestyle. Make sure you are getting enough sound sleep every night. Make sure to incorporate regular exercise into your routine as it can naturally boost your energy levels. Don't compromise on your diet and eat as nutritious food as you can!
Also Read: What Is Decaf Coffee? Is It A Good Idea To Replace Regular Coffee With It?
Is there any other mistake to avoid while quitting caffeine? Let us know in the comments below!