Caffeine is a staple for many, with about 90% of American adults consuming it regularly, mostly through coffee. Whether you’re cutting back or quitting entirely, removing caffeine from your diet can lead to various short- and long-term effects on your body. Let’s dive into what you can expect.
You Could Experience Some Nasty Headaches
Caffeine and headaches have a complicated relationship. On one hand, regular caffeine intake can lead to more frequent headaches, and on the other, caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches as well. According to the American Migraine Foundation, caffeine can even be used to treat headaches. However, when you quit caffeine, your blood vessels, which have adapted to regular caffeine consumption, return to their normal size. This change can trigger headaches temporarily. To manage these, steer clear of headache relief medications containing caffeine.
You Could Lose a Few Pounds
Quitting caffeine might also help with weight loss. Many of us add extra calories to our coffee through cream, sugar, or flavored syrups. For example, a plain cup of coffee with two tablespoons of heavy cream and two teaspoons of sugar can have around 130 calories. Compare that to a grande Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks, which contains 250 calories and 33 grams of sugar. By cutting out these add-ins, you might notice a decrease in your calorie intake, which can lead to weight loss. Additionally, a 2021 study from the Journal of the American Medical Association found that diet soda could increase cravings for savory foods, potentially leading to weight gain.
You Could Become Constipated
Caffeine doesn’t just stimulate your mind; it also stimulates your digestive system. When you stop consuming caffeine, you might notice some irregularity in your bathroom habits. However, if you replace coffee with water and eat plenty of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, your digestive system should adjust without too much trouble.
You Could Feel More Relaxed
Without caffeine, those jittery feelings you experience in the morning or late at night will diminish. This can positively impact your stress levels, reducing irritability and restlessness during the day. While you might feel a bit more anxious initially, your mood will eventually stabilize.
You Could Get Better Sleep
Caffeine can significantly impact your sleep-wake cycle. According to sleep expert Michael A. Grandner, Ph.D., caffeine stays in your system for hours, meaning that midday cup of coffee might be the culprit behind your restless nights. Cutting caffeine can reduce sleep disruptions and help your body naturally recognize when it’s time to sleep. Grandner also mentions that you don’t need caffeine to wake up; your body does that naturally. Consider switching to herbal tea if you enjoy a warm drink in the morning.
You Could Feel Lethargic
Caffeine is a stimulant, so quitting can initially lead to reduced energy, drowsiness, and a foggy feeling. The National Library of Medicine suggests that these symptoms are part of caffeine withdrawal. To avoid these unpleasant side effects, try tapering off caffeine gradually. Start with a half-caf latte, then transition to a mix of decaf and regular coffee before quitting entirely.
You Could Have a Whiter Smile
One of the perks of quitting coffee is saying goodbye to coffee stains on your teeth. The American Dental Association points out that coffee and soda, whether caffeinated or not, can erode your enamel. By cutting out these beverages, you’ll protect your teeth and maintain a brighter smile.
In conclusion, quitting caffeine can lead to several changes in your body, some challenging but many beneficial. Whether you’re motivated by better sleep, weight loss, or just wanting to feel more relaxed, pushing through the initial discomfort can lead to a healthier you.
