Shaking After Drinking Coffee: Is it Common?
There are many people who experience shaking after drinking coffee. While the cause of this shaking is unknown, it could be due to the increase in caffeine in the body, the jitters associated with the drink, or other factors such as dehydration or low blood sugar. Depending on the severity and commonness of the shaking, there could be different solutions to help a person manage the feeling of vibration and jitters that comes after drinking coffee.
Caffeine is a stimulant and, when consumed, it causes the body to become more alert, produce more energy, and increase heart rate. When taken in high doses, or for those who are sensitive to the effects, coffee drinking can cause shaking, typically in the hands or arms, which can be accompanied by feelings of anxiety and restlessness. For some, this shaking may happen shortly after drinking coffee, while for others, it may not occur until several hours after its consumption.
The good news is that many people will experience shaking much less when reducing the amount of caffeine they consume. Others find that drinking decaffeinated coffee or tea can help reduce or eliminate shaking. If it does still persist, it may be a sign of an underlying disorder, like Parkinson’s disease or a magnesium deficiency, which should be evaluated and treated by a medical professional. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and snack regularly on healthy snacks can help prevent a person from feeling overly tired, dehydrated, or weak, which are all factors that can contribute to shaking after drinks like coffee.
Beyond these tips, many experts suggest that a person should take into account the effects that coffee has on their mental and physical health. If a person experiences shaking, anxiety, or restlessness after drinking coffee, they should be sure to reduce their intake or switch to decaffeinated options and keep an eye out for any other potential underlying causes. With the help of medical professionals, individuals can create a plan to help them manage their symptoms, manage their intake of caffeine, or address any potential underlying medical conditions.
Understanding Caffeine Sensitivity and its Effect on Coffee Drinking
Caffeine sensitivity refers to the way in which an individual’s body responds to caffeine. Everyone has a different level of sensitivity to caffeine which is determined by how quickly the body has metabolized the caffeine and how quickly it has been able to process it. There are certain factors that can contribute to a person’s sensitivity to caffeine, including age, genetics, metabolism, and overall health.
Those who are ultra-sensitive to caffeine and those who are particularly sensitive to it may be more likely to experience shaking, palpation, and is the restlessness that is associated with drinking coffee. People can test their caffeine sensitivity by drinking a caffeinated beverage and monitoring how quickly it affects them. If a person begins to feel jittery or experience shaking within 30 minutes of consuming caffeine, then they may be more sensitive to the effects.
For those who have a particularly low level of tolerance to caffeine, they may need to be extra mindful of their intake. Switching to a decaffeinated version of coffee will likely reduce or prevent the feeling of jitters and shaking that some people experience after consuming coffee, however, if this does not help, then an individual should discuss their symptoms with their doctor.
Tips to Reduce Sensitive Reactions to Coffee
There are some helpful tips to reduce sensitive reactions to coffee, such as avoiding drinking coffee on an empty stomach, eating a small snack before drinking a cup of coffee, and limiting yourself to a cup or two per day. As mentioned previously, opting for a decaffeinated version of coffee can greatly reduce the chances of a person experiencing sensitivities to caffeine. Additionally, drinking water or indulge in soothing activities such as yoga or meditation as a way to counterbalance the caffeine.
It is important to remember that everyone is affected by coffee differently because of their levels of sensitivity and that it is always important to recognize the reactions that happen within the body after drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages. Being aware of the feelings and reactions after drinking coffee is key to helping an individual manage their health, minimize experienced side effects, and find appropriate solutions that are tailored to their unique needs.
Factors That Increase Chance of Experiencing Shaking After Drinking Coffee
Caffeine sensitivity is the most common factor associated with shaking after drinking coffee, however, those who are prone to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues are more likely to experience the shaking and jitters. Many experts suggest that those who suffer from mental health conditions should limit their intake of coffee, avoid drinking coffee right before bed, and seek out different beverages or choices for caffeine that are more tailored to their needs.
Additionally, those who are physically stressed or are running low on energy are more likely to experience tremors and shaking after coffee consumption. It is important to note that coffee can be used to help increase energy and focus, however, its overconsumption can eventually lead to a decline in overall energy levels and cause a feeling of weakness which could potentially lead to a person experiencing shaking or tremors.
It is always important to speak with a medical professional if a person feels like they are having an overreaction to coffee or caffeine in general. A doctor can evaluate a person’s symptoms, identify any potential underlying issues, and create a plan to help the person manage the shaking or other reactions.
Do Other Beverages Cause Shaking?
While coffee is typically associated with providing an energy boost and possibly causing shaking, other beverages also contain caffeine, which can lead to similar reactions in the body. These include energy drinks, tea, sodas, and other energy-boosting beverages. If a person has noticed that they have a particularly sensitive reaction to shakes after drinking coffee, they may want to consider avoiding other beverages that contain caffeine or discuss the intake of coffee and other caffeinated drinks with their doctor.
In terms of non-caffeinated drinks, alcohol is one of the most popular and known for different reactions in the body. While alcohol does not contain caffeine, it can cause a person to experience shaking and jitters, particularly when consumed in large quantities. Alcohol is known to be a depressant that slows brain activity and can lead to shaking, particularly in the hands, as the body is attempting to process it. Additionally, some medical professionals estimate that alcohol can in fact, increase the body’s absorption of caffeine, and if combined with coffee, can lead to amplified effects.
Conclusion
Shaking after drinking coffee can be a common occurrence depending on an individual’s level of caffeine sensitivity, any underlying medical conditions, and physical or mental health. While reducing the amount of caffeine consumed and switching to a decaffeinated version of the drink can help reduce the feeling of jitters and trembling, it is always important to speak with a medical professional if any symptoms persist. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of other beverages that contain caffeine, as these can also lead to feelings of shaking or vibrations within the body and should be avoided if sensitivity is noticed.
