Caffeine Addiction: Understanding, Symptoms & Withdrawal

View Photos Image Source  Caffeine addiction is a by-product of our stressful lifestyle. It is only recently that the word 'addiction' is being used in connection with caffeine. However, the side effects of caffeine addiction are so serious that it is apt to label it as an 'addiction' like any other like smoking or alcoholism.If you have made up your mind about quitting caffeine then be prepared for withdrawal symptoms of caffeine. It is in fact one of the most addictive substances that is available without any legal complications and can be consumed in whatever quantity desired.

Why is Caffeine addictive?

Caffeine is a stimulant for the brain. It has what we call a psychoactive effect on the nervous system. As a result we feel more alert when we get our steaming cup of coffee in the morning. Also we drink coffee when we are studying late into the night for exams or even when we are generally feeling sleepy at work. It is taking short cut solution to deal with our tired mind that leads to caffeine addiction. It is also a stress buster and an anti-depressant.

The side effects of caffeine are sleep disorders, skin problems, twitching nerves and head aches. If caffeine is consumed in a sustained manner and in very high amounts and then suddenly stopped, it can cause what we call 'caffeine poisoning' or withdrawal symptoms of caffeine.

Symptoms of Caffeine Addiction:

• If you get cravings for caffeine at a specific time every day

• If you feel irritable or restless if you have not taken caffeine for a long time

• If you get headaches and don't get sound sleep without consuming caffeine

• Jf you feel uncomfortable if your supply of caffeine is depleted

All these symptoms suggest that you have caffeine addiction.

Quitting Caffeine:

• Firstly it has to be a gradual process or else there is a good chance that you may go cold turkey.

• While quitting caffeine switch from coffee to tea which has lesser concentration of caffeine. If you can switch to herbal tea or green tea, nothing like it.

• Go for die-caffeinated drinks to satisfy your pangs of caffeine hunger. But you have to set your eyes on quitting these as well at some point as they are not hundred percent caffeine-free.

• Tell your friends to keep reminding you that you are trying to quit. Good company is crucial for dealing with addiction.

• If you need to ward of drowsiness then even a glass of warm water will help.

• Exercise regularly and that will go a long way in cleansing your system to keep you fitter.

• Sleep at regular timings, avoid late nights; sleep for at least 7 hours so that you feel fresh in the morning.

At the end of the day caffeine addiction like any other addiction will have withdrawal symptoms. You will need will power for quitting caffeine and it is only your determination will make you take the plunge.