Everybody loves a cup of great-tasting coffee in the morning to kickstart their day. But what if your body is overly dependent on that morning cup?
Caffeine is considered a performance-enhancing drug because of its ability to provide a short burst of energy to the body. This makes it a staple in many individuals’ daily habit. Although it’s accepted by society, many people don’t realize how addictive it can be and how even a tiny habit can develop into a need to drink coffee every day.
Aside from the effects of caffeine, the mental attachment associated with a daily coffee habit can be upsetting and difficult to break. In fact, physical dependence on coffee can lead to psychological dependence too – the feeling of not having an addicting substance can take an emotional toll on some people.
It’s estimated that approximately 83% of adults in the U.S. consume coffee daily including carbonated beverages such as energy drinks, colas and more. Despite this, it’s also estimated that only about 12% of adults in the U.S. have a physical addiction to coffee and its caffeine.
Dr. Julian Hopwood, a senior lecturer in psychology at the University of Warwick, stated “People’s bodies do become adjusted to the routine, and for some that can result in physical withdrawal symptoms and difficulty sleeping when they don’t have their cup of coffee.”
Not only can caffeine addiction cause sleep problems but it can also result in other health issues as well such as anxiety, irritability, headache, nausea, restlessness, and even depression.
The National Institutes of Health has confirmed that caffeine is a vital part to those dealing with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s. Although there is clear evidence that consuming too much caffeine can cause some health concerns, there is still opportunity for beneficial compromises.
Jesus Pena, a biochemist in the Department of Endocrinology at the University of Havana, suggests that, for someone looking to cut back on their coffee consumption, gradually decreasing their intake may be the best way to ease the effects of caffeine withdrawal. He believes that reducing your cup of coffee by 10% each week may help keep the physical response mild and prevent the body from going into shock, so to speak.
Biological Effects
Caffeine interacts with the body in multiple ways. It interacts with the nervous system causing the brain to release dopamine and epinephrine, both commonly referred to as ‘happy hormones’, and this can result in improved energy levels and clarity.
At the same time, caffeine has the opposite effects on the body and can cause an elevation in heart rate and blood pressure. This reaction can sometimes be undesirable, like in those with pre-existing heart conditions, and this is also why pregnant women are advised to reduce their caffeine intake.
Caffeine is also a diuretic and can lead to more frequent urination. All of this can be mitigated by reducing coffee intake, as that leads to less stress on the body caused by caffeine.
Research conducted at the University of Warwick in 2019, suggests that by cutting out caffeine altogether, those at risk of developing high blood pressure can see a reduction in their risk by as much as 20%.
Thus, while it may be difficult to break free from the habit of drinking coffee, understanding the science behind it and engaging in caffeine reduction strategies may help individuals safely reduce their addiction.
Financial Impact
Quitting coffee can also have a significant financial impact. Investing in coffee machines, or frequenting coffee bars on a regular basis can add up, leading to hundreds of dollars being spent each year. Even if you don’t purchase a cup of coffee daily, those who drink several cups a week quickly feel the consequences of their habit.
For instance, a survey conducted by the National Coffee Association suggests that regular consumers of coffee, who buy more than five cups a week, usually spend $90 per week on coffee. This adds up to more than $4,300 over the course of a year.
However, even if you can’t quit your habit completely, there are ways to reduce your consumption and save money at the same time. You can start by replacing your daily coffee with tea, or if you’re looking to cut back on your budget, you can opt for instant coffee or lower-quality options.
Lastly, you can also try to mix up your coffee habits. For instance, if you buy coffee from a specialty cafe, try to switch it up. Try to look for deals on coffee beans or at discount stores. By being conscious of where your coffee is coming from, and how much you’re spending, you can still enjoy a cup without breaking the bank.
Lifestyle Impact
The main concern of consuming so much caffeine is the adverse impact it has on lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity. Too much caffeine can lead to an increase in appetite, as well as general fatigue due to lack of sleep.
Furthermore, caffeine can reduce gastrointestinal motility, resulting in indigestion and constipation. Additionally, caffeine intake can raise blood sugar levels, which can foster an environment for unhealthy eating patterns and frequent hunger.
Dr. Ryan Smith, an epidemiologist at the University of Michigan, conducted a study examining the relationship between caffeine intake and physical activity. He found that those who had higher caffeine-intake levels demonstrated lower overall levels of physical activity.
This is likely due to the fact that caffeine suppresses one’s appetite and can create a false sense of energy despite the lack of exercise. Consequently, individuals drinking too much coffee may be at a higher risk of obesity and other associated health risks.
On the other hand, those who are able to control their caffeine intake can benefit from a well-balanced dietary allotment and more consistent physical activity. As such, the American Heart Association recommends limiting caffeine consumption to 400 milligrams per day.
Psychological Impact
One of the more understated impacts of drinking too much coffee is the psychological effects of withdrawal. As with any addiction, it can be incredibly hard to break the habit, and it may be difficult to do without support from friends or a healthcare professional.
One method to reduce psychological dependency is to build a habit or routine that does not involve coffee drinking. This can be an activity such as going for a walk before breakfast, or starting the day with a glass of water. Taking a few moments to sit and reflect can also be a great way to begin your day.
Furthermore, trying to find moments throughout the day to practice mindfulness can help to calm the mind and improve the overall mental wellbeing. It may also be beneficial to opt for hot drinks like tea to fulfill cravings for hot drinks.
In addition to the advice from experts, reducing coffee consumption can make a big difference to your wellbeing. Taking the time to understand why you drink caffeine can help make the change less daunting. For those that are still struggling, seeking professional help or joining support groups may be the way forward.
Social Impact
Finally, an addiction to caffeine can come with its own unique set of social implications. Often times, individuals suffering from caffeine addiction may feel embarrassed or ashamed to share their struggles with their friends and family.
In these cases, those affected may benefit from the support of loved ones, who can help them become more aware of their addiction and provide guidance and support during difficult times. Additionally, talking through the issue with a professional may provide help to those who have difficulties sharing their concerns with others.
On the other hand, for those who are better at controlling their caffeine consumption, social activities can be a great way to break away from coffee drinking. Going out for drinks, playing sports, or simply taking a break from coffee can be beneficial for those who have difficulty managing their caffeine habits.
Overall, it is important to remember that an addiction to coffee can negatively affect personal and social lives. However, with the right approach and sources of guidance and support, individuals can still reduce their dependence and live healthier, coffee-free lives.
