For most people, their morning rituals start with a warm cup of coffee and some take a few more cups throughout the day. Caffeine, a psychoactive substance that’s found in coffee, teas, sodas and energy drinks, is the most widely used stimulant in the world – and it is little wonder why.
Apart from being a good pick-me-up in the mornings, it’s been found that moderate caffeine intake can perk up your cognitive function and lower the risk of several health ailments.
That being said, recent research has shown that there’d be great advantages to cutting back your caffeine intake and perhaps, going caffeine-free altogether. Here are 4 benefits you’d enjoy should you cut down your caffeine intake.
1. More Sustained Energy Throughout The Day
One of the reasons why caffeine is the go-to pick-me-up is its stimulus properties. However, just as how they can give you a surge of energy, you can also experience a plunge just as easily.
A big part of the process comes from the way caffeine activates your sympathetic nervous systems. This means your body is producing and releasing your fight-or-flight hormones – cortisol and adrenaline, in particular– more than it usually does. Whilst this gives you the quick shot of energy you were looking for, once they wear off and your hormones are back to ground zero, the effects can be quite jarring. You may be left feeling even more tired than you started out.
Instead, opt for herbal tea by incorporating invigorating spices such as cinnamon, ginger and turmeric. Not only do they have stimulant properties to make you feel more awake during the day, but they also have several health benefits and properties as well!
2. Better Absorption of Micronutrients
Unfortunately, caffeine and micronutrients don’t mix together very well. Due to caffeine’s diuretic effect, several water-soluble vitamins will be dissolved and expelled from the body via urination before they can be fully absorbed.
Moreover, caffeine also interferes with the absorption of iron and calcium, 2 minerals that can lead to deficiencies if there’s a shortage. Those who are deficient in one or more micronutrients may see an improvement should they cut down on their caffeine intake.
3. Lower The Risk Of Heartburn
Those that suffer from heartburn and acid reflux may want to look at their daily caffeine intake as research has narrowed it down as one of the main culprits. Coffee, in particular, has a high degree in acidity, which only worsens the heartburn symptoms. Try easing caffeine out of your diet and you may just experience great relief.
4. Less Stress And Anxiety
In order to give you an energy boost, caffeine gives your cortisol production a quick bump. Whilst this may provide you with the energy to survive the day, it may not be as sustainable when it comes to your mental psyche.
Apart from being one of your fight-or-flight hormones, it’s also commonly known as the stress hormone. It’s one thing to have a spike in this primary stress hormone due to caffeine intake, but it’s another thing if other daily stresses compound it. This easily leads to more tremendous stress and anxiety, which can give rise to several health ailments such as cardiovascular diseases and the like. Naturally, if one maintains their caffeine intake, the risk of anxiety symptoms and other health ailments will be relatively low.
Final thoughts
Of course, don’t let these facts deter you from enjoying a cuppa or two. As with anything in life, caffeine can be beneficial if used in moderation. The recommended daily intake is 4 cups, which is still a relatively robust amount.
Since each body composition varies from one person to another, be sure to be aware of how caffeine affects your body. If you’ve realised that 2 cups of coffee is your limit, it’s best to stop at that number or opt for less-caffeinated options such as tea or even golden milk.
With that said, if you’ve been struggling with side effects from caffeine and is experiencing caffeine withdrawal symptoms, you may want to discuss with your doctor. With MyCLNQ, access to telehealth and telemedicine services has greatly improved. Not only are you able to set up an appointment via digitally, you can also consult a doctor online comfortably at home without having to deal with the waiting time at the clinic.