Caffeine has become a common addiction. It is the most widely used
drug in the world, mainly because it is so cheap and easily obtainable.
However, ridding a caffeine addiction is no easy task.
According to a study, withdrawal symptoms created by caffeine are
elevated with the more caffeine consumed. The study revealed that
even small amounts of caffeine, such as one standard cup of coffee
a day, could create an addiction. For those who consume it regularly,
cutting even the smallest amount of caffeine could result in a range
of withdrawal symptoms:
- Headache
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Depression and irritability
- Lack of concentration
- Flu-like symptoms such as nausea and muscle pain
Researchers found withdrawal symptoms began 12 to 24 hours after
eliminating caffeine. The symptoms lasted anywhere from two to nine
days, with peak intensity between the first and second day.
Furthermore, the perceived benefits coffee drinkers seek may be
deceiving. This is because it seems the positive, satisfying feelings
gained from drinking coffee in the morning are actually a reversal
of the negative effects of a caffeine withdrawal attained overnight.
Avoiding these negative effects is the driving force for those who
drink coffee.
However, there is a simple approach to ridding this addiction.
Researchers have developed a system for caffeine users where decaffeinated
or non-caffeinated products are substituted in place of coffee or
soft drinks. Through this system, withdrawal symptoms may be decreased
or eliminated altogether.
Caffeine-based Trivia:
- 80 to 90 percent of adults in North America report regular use
of caffeine
- The most common sources of caffeine in the United States are
coffee and soft drinks
- Average daily intake of caffeine by users in the United States
is one to two mugs of coffee or three to five bottles of soft
drinks
Science
Blog September 29, 2004
| 