Are you wondering exactly much caffeine is in your cup of coffee. Trying to cut down a bit, or at least know how much caffeine you are ingesting each day with your morning cup of java or afternoon pick-me-up triple espresso Latte?
A typical cup of coffee contains approximately one hundred and twelve milligrams of caffeine. There is a bit less caffeine in a shot of espresso - a typical espresso shot includes about ninety milligrams of caffeine.
How much caffeine in coffee?This is important to keep in mind when making any espresso drinks.
While these numbers are typical, the amount of caffeine in coffee can vary considerably based upon multiple factors. The primary factors affecting caffeine content of coffee and espresso include the genetics of the coffee bean varietal, the particular roasting given to the coffee beans and how the coffee is brewed.
If the coffee beans being used are Arabica coffee beans then one cup of coffee that is approximately one hundred and twenty milliliters of coffee, if it is drip-brewed, will have about 112 milligrams of caffeine.
A 30 milliliter Espresso shot using Arabica coffee will have an estimated ninety milligrams of caffeine.
How Does Roasting Affect Coffee Caffeine Content?
When coffee is roasted it decreases the overall amount of caffeine in the coffee, but not significantly enough for it to be a serious way to reduce your caffeine intake.
Caffeine did not undergo significant degradation with only 5.4% being lost under severe roasting.
Source
Choose your roast based on your personal preferences, not based on caffeine content.
Roasting does have an effect on chlorogenic acid content - possibly what contributes to many of coffee's purported health effects, but another study also shows that caffeine is relatively unaffected by roast level.
On the other hand the Robusta coffee plant varietal has significantly more caffeine than the Arabica varietal. Robusta coffee beans are used primarily for espresso blends and to make instant coffee.
How Caffeine Metabolizes in the Human Body
Once a person consumes caffeine the body starts to metabolize it and this takes place in the person's liver. The result is three different metabolites. These three metabolites include paraxanthine (84%), theobromine (12%) and theophylline (4%).
In the first 45 minutes after consumption of the caffeine it is likely absorbed by the stomach and small intestine and begins to spread throughout the tissues of the human body.
Caffeine's Classification by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Considered safe for human consumption by the FDA, caffeine is classified as a food substance with multiple uses.
All About Caffeine in Coffee - Investigating the Side Effects of Caffeine and the Symptoms of Withdrawal from Caffeine continued:
Caffeine is a stimulant and is known scientifically as a xanthine alkaloid. When it is isolated from its source it is a crystalline white substance and is very bitter.
How does caffeine affect the human body?
Caffeine affects the human body by creating chemical changes in the human brain with a whole variety of effects including an enhanced alertness and energy level.
The way this is enhanced energy and alertness is achieved by the chemical caffeine is that the caffeine pretends, or mimics, another compound which is called adenosine.
The caffeine then binds on to the adenosine receptors in the brain with the effect of halting the true adenosine from doing its job which normally would be to slow down the body's nerve impulses and bring a very sleepy feeling to the person, a natural drowsiness that is warded off by the effects of caffeine.
Yes, some drugs may have an enhanced effectiveness when affected by caffeine. For example, some headache drugs include caffeine in their contents in order to help the effectiveness. This may be related to the vasodilating effects of caffeine.
Caffeine may be used in combination with ergotamine to treat cluster headaches and migraines. Some people prefer to use caffeine to overcome the sleepy qualities they feel when taking antihistamines.
Caffeine doesn't specifically, but coffee does.
However, some people who have shown to be at high risk for liver disease have been shown to have less severe liver injury associated with increasing caffeine consumption. This may include people with obesity, hemochromatosis and alcoholisms. [source]
Because of this, people who drink coffee but want to quit caffeine may want to look into decaf coffee instead of cutting out coffee entirely, so that they can continue to benefit from its health protecting properties.
Yes, some studies completed on ex vivo hair follicles have shown that caffeine may decrease hair growth suppression in vitro due to testosterone. In this regard caffeine may be a potential therapeutic agent in Androgenic alopecia, and caffeine has been added by some companies to their soap and shampoos.
Caffeine is found in nature in a wide array of plants, and it is found in plant fruits as well as plant leaves. This includes: cocoa beans, tea leaves, coffee beans and kola nuts. Less common sources are yaupon holly, guaryusa, yerba mate and guarana berries.
Caffeine often serves to help the plant by working as a natural pesticide against harmful predators on the plant such as insects.
What Products Contain Caffeine, and How Much?
A tablet of Excedrin contains about sixty-five milligrams of caffeine while a regular strength caffeine tablet has about one hundred milligrams of caffeine. There are two hundred milligrams of caffeine in an extra-strength caffeine tablet.
Another example of a common product with plenty of caffeine in it is chocolate. There are about ten milligrams of caffeine in an average milk chocolate bar. Dark chocolate, by comparison, may have about 30 milligrams of caffeine.
There are some dark chocolate bars that have as much as 160 milligrams of caffeine so it can vary considerably by the type and the quality of the chocolate.
Six ounces of a typical green tea will contain about thirty milligrams of caffeine while the very same amount of black tea will have about fifty milligrams of caffeine.
Amount of Caffeine in Coffee continued: You will get about thirty-four milligrams of caffeine from 12 ounces of Coke while a Mountain Dew will give you a whopping 54 milligrams of caffeine. A Red Bull energy drink has about eighty milligrams of caffeine while a Monster energy drink has about 160 milligrams of caffeine.
Withdrawal from Caffeine and Human Tolerance To Caffeine
People who consistently consume caffeine will gradually adapt to the continuous presence of the chemical in their body by increasing their overall number of adenosine receptors in their central nervous system. This occurs since caffeine functions as an antagonist to the receptors in the central nervous system for the neurotransmitter adenosine.
Tolerance adaptation to caffeine has the effect over time of reducing the chemical's stimulatory effects. These adaptive responses to caffeine also have the effect of making the person more sensitive to adenosine, and thus when the intake of caffeine is reduced then the adenosine's natural physiological effects will create withdrawal symptoms.
Of 49 symptom categories identified, the following 10 fulfilled validity criteria: headache, fatigue, decreased energy/activeness, decreased alertness, drowsiness, decreased contentedness, depressed mood, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and foggy/not clearheaded. In addition, flu-like symptoms, nausea/vomiting, and muscle pain/stiffness were judged likely to represent valid symptom categories.
In experimental studies, the incidence of headache was 50% and the incidence of clinically significant distress or functional impairment was 13%. Typically, onset of symptoms occurred 12-24 h after abstinence, with peak intensity at 20-51 h, and for a duration of 2-9 days. In general, the incidence or severity of symptoms increased with increases in daily dose; abstinence from doses as low as 100 mg/day produced symptoms.
Research is reviewed indicating that expectancies are not a prime determinant of caffeine withdrawal and that avoidance of withdrawal symptoms plays a central role in habitual caffeine consumption.
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15448977
Debate Over Adenosine Receptors, Tolerance and Caffeine Withdrawal Symptoms
There is some debate in scientific circles about the increase in adenosine receptors being the main cause of building up tolerance to caffeine's stimulating effects, with some evidence pointing toward a conclusion that there are also other causes at work which help to explain people developing a tolerance to large doses of caffeine.
The Discoverer of Caffeine
The evidence is a bit fuzzy but some say that the stimulating effects of caffeine are mentioned in Chinese legends dating to about 3,000 years ago.
Firmer evidence comes from 600 BCE as a Mayan pot dating to this time contains the first clear evidence of a cocoa bean, so we know caffeine was around by this time for sure.
Who First Isolated Caffeine from Coffee?
In 1819 the German chemist Friedlieb Runge became the first scientist to successfully isolate the chemical caffeine from coffee beans. Less than one year later the French chemist Pelletier and another scientist named Caventou also isolated the chemical caffeine, and Pelletier was the one to coin the word "cafeine" which he derived from the word "cafe" meaning coffee.
Who Opened the First Coffee House?
As early as 1530 there were coffeehouses in Damascus, Syria and Istanbul.
What began the spread of coffee all around the world?
In the 1600s the Dutch became the first people to carry coffee from the ancient port of Mocha. This movement of coffee by the Dutch began the rapid spread of coffee beans around the globe and it is still spreading, most recently growing rapidly in consumption in China and other emerging markets.
The Dutch were also industrious in cultivating coffee in other locations, first in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) in 1658.
Caffeine withdrawal
Regular caffeine consumption reduces sensitivity to caffeine. When caffeine intake is reduced, the body becomes oversensitive to adenosine. In response to this oversensitiveness, blood pressure drops dramatically, causing an excess of blood in the head (though not necessarily on the brain), leading to a caffeine withdrawal headache.
This headache, well known among coffee drinkers, usually lasts from one to five days, and can be alleviated with analgesics such as aspirin. It is also alleviated with caffeine intake (in fact several analgesics contain caffeine dosages).
Even small amounts of caffeine (such as a green tea, compared to a full coffee) can do wonders to alleviate a withdrawal-induced headache.
The source of caffeine is important to consider as well. Coffee is generally considered to be healthy, due in part to its anti-oxidant properties. However, energy drinks and unregulated supplements may contain any number of other compounds that can have a negative impact, often working synergistically with caffeine.
Caffeine on its own, particularly coffee, is associated with an overall decrease in all-cause-mortality [4]. Simply put, this means that people who drink coffee are less likely to die from all causes.
Caffeine withdrawal symptoms
Often, people who are reducing caffeine intake report being irritable, unable to work, nervous, restless, and feeling sleepy, as well as having a headache. Many of these symptoms mirror having the cold or flu.
- Headache
- Sleepiness
- Irritability
- Fatigue, lethargy
- Constipation
- Depression
- Muscle stiffness, cramping
- Brain fog, Inability to focus
- Cold-like symptoms
- Anxiety
In extreme cases, nausea and vomiting has also been reported. These are very real experiences [1], and despite recurring jokes, can cause problems with normal functioning. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical advice.
Is Caffeine Withdrawal Real?
In short: Yes. Negative effects from quitting caffeine have been scientifically documented in clinical studies.
Of 49 symptom categories identified, the following 10 fulfilled validity criteria: headache, fatigue, decreased energy/activeness, decreased alertness, drowsiness, decreased contentedness, depressed mood, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and foggy/not clearheaded. In addition, flu-like symptoms, nausea/vomiting, and muscle pain/stiffness were judged likely to represent valid symptom categories. [1]
Additionally, caffeine withdrawal is recognized by psychiatrists as a real disorder.
Caffeine withdrawal is a recognized disorder and is listed in the DSM-5. (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)
How Long Does Caffeine Withdrawal Last?
The answer to this will depend on your level of consumption and the level you reduce your caffeine consumption to.
In experimental studies, the incidence of headache was 50% and the incidence of clinically significant distress or functional impairment was 13%. Typically, onset of symptoms occurred 12-24 h after abstinence, with peak intensity at 20-51 h, and for a duration of 2-9 days. [1]
That means you'll probably notice the start within 12-24 hours with the worst being the second day you after you quit. From there, it gradually gets better over the course of a week to a week and a half.
Your brain is miraculously resilient and adapts to life without caffeine in just 2 short weeks. The psychological habit of drinking caffeine can take 3 to 4 weeks to break, but can also be replaced with decaf coffee or another low-caffeine drink (eg. tea).
Reports of people having withdrawal symptoms months or years after quitting coffee or caffeine are more typically confused with general health maladies or other more drugs.
Unrelated Symptoms
Caffeine cessation is often associated with major lifestyle changes, and as such, it can be difficult to associated symptoms directly with caffeine withdrawal. As a best practice, you should isolate factors by making changes slowly, over time, unless under the advice and guidance of a medical professional.
Compounding factors such as other medications, and major health events that lead to discontinuing caffeine, can have a misleading association with caffeine withdrawals.
If symptoms such as kidney pain appears, seek immediate medical attention.
Tingling
There are no known mechanisms through which caffeine withdrawal may cause tingling. On the other hand, caffeine consumption can sometimes cause tingling due to restriction of blood flow to extremities.
Back pain
While back pain is not a symptom of caffeine withdrawal, symptoms may (re)appear when caffeine use is discontinued.
This may be due to caffeine's reported analgesic affect on pain [3] - in english, caffeine might help alleviate (back) pain by amplifying the effect of pain killers. The re-ocurring presence of back pain may be due to synergistic effect being lost, but is unrelated to the temporary effects of withdrawal itself.
Dealing with Caffeine Withdrawal
The severity of caffeine withdrawal symptoms vary with how extreme the restriction, and a gradual reduction can do wonders in avoiding symptoms. Simply starting by replacing one cup of coffee with a decaf coffee or tea will provide a much smaller dose of caffeine, allowing your receptors to re-acclimate to lower levels. Drinking coffee (decaf) or other warm beverage (tea) instead of regular coffee helps psychologically with the well established habit.
Timing large reductions in caffeine consumption is also a useful tool. Picking a time of rest and relaxation such as a weekend or vacation can lessen the burden of symptoms like brain fog and a lack of motivation.
Hydration is also key - while coffee is a diuretic it's also mostly water, and cutting back on coffee may also inadvertently cut back on your fluid intake. Many symptoms of dehydration overlap with caffeine withdrawal including headaches, muscle soreness and leg cramping, irritability and lethargy.
Without caffeine blocking your adenoseine receptors, your body's built up levels of adenosine will lead to a lot of sleepiness. Get lots of rest! Scientists are still puzzled by why humans need sleep, aside from getting tired. According to some research from the NIH (National Institutes of Health) has indicated that sleep enables your brain to drain built-up chemical by products of working so hard (you little genius), which is good for you!
Advil or Tylenol can be an effective method of dealing with the coffee withdrawal headache and muscle pain. Other natural pain relievers such as running / exercise and even an orgasm can provide temporary relief by dilating blood vessels in the brain.
The best solution may not be totally ceasing caffeine consumption though. Coffee does have health benefits, as it contains over 1000 known compounds, with many associated with lowering blood pressure and improving cardiac function, as well as liver protection [2]. Generally, the best coffees are grown at higher elevations will develop more healthy chlorogenic acids that are present in higher concentrations in light roasts than dark roasts. If you're a dark roast lover however, darker roasts cause less stomach acid production. A decaffeinated coffee with just 5-25 mg of caffeine will still retain a lot of its healthy chemicals and will provide health benefits in medium and dark roasts.
With these tips you can reduce the caffeine in your body and avoid the rebound of a caffeine withdrawal.
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15448977
[2] Coffee Consumption Decreases Risks for Hepatic Fibrosis and Cirrhosis: A Meta-Analysis
http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0142457
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22419343
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28697850
Caffeine and Health. J. E. James, Academic Press, 1991. Progress in Clinical and Biological Research Volume 158. G. A. Spiller, Ed. Alan R. Liss Inc, 1984.
Xie et al "Sleep initiated fluid flux drives metabolite clearance from the adult brain." Science, October 18, 2013. DOI: 10.1126/science.1241224
Ms. Headache says
re: Hang in there everyone. This
Hang in there everyone. This is my second go around with caffeine withdrawl. The first time I did it I thought I was going insane. Horrible side effects I dealt with but after about a week or so I came back to normal and felt great. I am now again going through withdrawl hell. I have had a headache for days feel tired achy and miserable. This too shall pass. It boggles my mind that coffee can do this to the human body.
Jan says
re: Caffeine withdrawal
I am on the road to quitting caffeine. I am a coffee addict. In addition, I drink it with loads of cream and sugar. 5 years ago, I underwent gastric bypass surgery for obestity. Lost 100 lbs and regained 40, largely due to the cream & surgery. A few months ago, I developed a bleeding ulcer and an on prilosec twice a day and iron 3 times a day. Also, my blood pressure has been rising again, When I had my stomach scoped and the ulcer was found, I was told to cut out the coffee. I have been weaning myself off the past week and am down to 1 cup of maxwell house lite in the morning. Even so, I am still miserable.
Not so much with the headace but with increased aches & pains (I already have fibromalgia which doesn;t help). Hopefully this will let up soon.
User says
re: BAD NAUSEA
I normally drink from 1-3 cups of coffee a day, and it is well known by my entire family that I am a caffeine addict.
I had read somewhere online that caffeine could could menstruation cramps to get worse as one gets closer to their period, so I thought "Maybe just a couple of days wouldn't hurt" so I quit drinking coffee cold turkey.
Much to my surprise, the very next day I was over the toilet in agony. Any medication I took was worthless, as it would come right back up. After the symptoms had died back down, I did the first thing that any coffee adict does, I had a cup, and like magic the flu-like symptoms were gone... Now I know that caffeine addiction is a serious thing and I wonder if it's worth it trying to break the habit :/
User says
re: Licorice
I have had digestive issues and Gerd. I have been off of coffee for one day and did not experience a headache that I had experienced before with cutting caffeine out of my diet.
I was told by my Naturapath Dr. to try Licorice root for my digestive issues. After reading about what Licorice root can help with, I discovered that Licorice Root has been used for Adrenaline Gland issues.
Caffeine exhausts the Adrenaline Glands to give energy. This explains the down you feel after the caffeine buzz goes away and you are off to fill your coffee cup again.
Yesterday being my first day this round being off of coffee or mochas and I noticed that my energy level stayed at a constant level. However I did have a large hot chocolate which has a little caffeine but not as much as a cup of coffee. With this I was satisfied, it was warm tasted good and gave me just a little bit of caffeine from the hot chocolate. I think this would be the best way to get off of caffeine instead of cold turkey.
If you read on licorice root, you can read comments of how licorice root helping your adreline glands will give you more energy. I am not as sluggish in the morning.
Anyways, I hope this helps.
Denise says
re: Hi Mark - you stated it
Hi Mark - you stated it perfectly ... "this is classic addiction".
Best of luck to you and everyone here in getting clean of caffeine. Maybe we should all pitch in and hire Dr. Drew. 🙂
Denise says
re: Hi Dave!
Hi Dave - yes, my friend, you are the Dave to whom I was referring. 🙂
And here we are, both back under the influence of our Dark Master. UG! I'm so sorry to see a fellow poster fall as hard as I have. Congratulations on your medical field pursuit - what a wonderful goal you have! As for the sleep issues, you are absolutely correct - I found that the first two months of being clean were the worst as far as my sleep patterns - I would fall off to sleep almost instantly, sleep deeply for about two hours and then sleep fitfully for the rest of the night. My God, I can't imagine what caffeine is really, truly doing to our bodies.
I always come back to this board for support, including this morning when I saw your post - thank you! Now that the holidays are over, my traveling is behind me and I am thoroughly disgusted with myself for once again having to face a new and horrible withdrawal, I am making "THE VOW" once again, LOL.
My birthday is May 5th, which is 17 weeks from tomorrow. I'm going to drink coffee all day today and then that's it!!!!! A 17-week detox. Please wish me luck and I hope you, too, will succeed at some point in getting clean and de-caffeinated. Cyber hug! 🙂 Denise
Mark says
re: Caffeine Addiction
I used to drink mainly tea ( which also has caffeine ) and had only the occasional cup of coffee. I then developed a taste for Cuppuccinos and Lattes from Coffee shops and over the last few years have steadily ramped up my coffee consumption, including having 4-5 cups at home.
Reading other posts here, I realise that this is classic addiction. I also made my coffee stronger and stronger, again classic signs.
I quit coffee on Sunday and was expecting maybe a slight headache and was not prepared for the searing migrane I had along with other body aches and pains.
I'm resigned to accepting that this will be a lot harder than I thought.
Dave MM says
re: Hi, Denise 🙂 Long time, no
Hi, Denise 🙂 Long time, no see. I can only assume that I'm the Dave you were talking about, because I don't remember another Dave posting on here. I'm ashamed to admit that I too am back on caffeine, heavily. After going over one month of being caffeine free, I started to feel great. I was calmer, happier, and had the same steady energy throughout the day. However, I also developed bad sleep issues, like waking up in the middle of the night and not being able to go back to sleep. Long story short, I"m back on caffeine. I've also decided to pursue my dream of being a medical doctor, so I'm back in school. I'm going to try to quit again this Summer, when things will be more relaxed and, hopefully I will be more successful. But until then, things will be (and have been) way too hectic.
I'm sorry to see that you too have fallen back in. It's tough because when you start using caffeine again, you feel incredible for the first few weeks. It truly is a drug! I wish you nothing but the best of luck in your quest to again kick the habit. Happy New Year to you and everyone here,
Dave
Now I have to get back that damn CAPTCHA. Why must it be so difficult?!?
User says
re: It's been rough!
Hi Kikaida! I too quit caffeine cold turkey about three months ago. I was drinking 600-700 mg per day and began to feel intense anxiety. To end the anxiety I decided to end my caffeine consumption. Unbeknownst to me at the time, anxiety and depression are two symptoms of caffeine withdrawal, both of which I've felt for the past few months. Although they aren't gone, I can definitely feel a difference between how I feel now and how I felt when i first quit. The reason I'm writing you is because I noticed we've had similar withdrawal symptoms and was wondering how your's are doing and also what the doctor has said to you about how long caffeine withdrawal usually lasts. Hang in there!
Lisa says
re: Caffeine Addiction is Real
It is good to read that others have the same experience with regards to caffeine addiction. My husband doesn't understand that it's "all or nothing" for me, and that I can't just have some every once in awhile. I don't remember it having such impacts in my early 20s, but definitely since I was 25 or 26 (I'm 31 now).
Caffeine strongly affects my mood (providing a very effective upper), energy levels, and I always crave more after I've had even a few sips. I detox about once a year, usually, and this time I want it to stick (even though I will miss the taste of coffee).
I have recently been diagnosed with autoimmune thyroid disease and am trying to support my adrenal glands (meaning NO caffeine!).
Happy New Year to you and here's to a caffeine-free 2011!
User says
re: I have quit drinking and
I have quit drinking and smoking and replaced it with French Vanilla International coffee. During the last few years I have had a huge weight gain and sweats. Beside my weight I believe the caffeine is a great contributor, therefore, I am quitting the french vanilla international coffee and all other caffeine to get back to feeling human. This is my first day.
Another Kim says
re: Don't be scared
First of all Congratulations on the stopping drinking!! That is a huge accomplishment that you should be overjoyed with. As for the caffeine, the day will come to conquer that. This addiction stuff is a lifetime journey. So don't be scared, skygirl. Your doing GREAT!
Another Kim says
re: Hi Jane, the body pain and
Hi Jane, the body pain and nausea are hard for me too. The first time I quit caffeine I was throwing up. I'm trying again. The hard part for me after a couple of days of headache is the depression that takes a week to go away. The trap I get pulled into is believing the caffeine will take my depression away-the solution. (which it will in the short run, than the addiction with all the bad comes back) - instead of knowing that the caffeine IS the problem my depression is coming from withdrawels that if I can hold out for a week of feeling down and full of anxiety I WILL feel new again. As for the children and teens drinking caffeine!! I'm with you there. My teenagers know of my struggles and they are trying to stay away from the ever so popular Monster Drinks that their friends consume in large quantities. 🙁 I have come to the conclusion that I cannot pick up just one caffeinated drink or I fall back into downing mega doses of caffeine to try to get the same effect. It just doesn't work, All you get is poor health, high anxiety and an out of control life. Good Luck to you. Hope your not crawling to your bedroom for much longer 🙂 I can picture that very well 🙂
Kim
jane says
re: Feeling the pain
I just stopped caffine on Monday and had to call in sick yesterday. Every part of my body hurts, even in my joints, but especially my head and neck. At one point, I literally rolled off of the sofa and crawled to my bed. 🙂 I was expecting the headache but was not expecting the rest of my body to be in so much pain and to be an emotional wreck. I'm happy I found this site so I know I'm not losing my mind. Going through this makes me wonder... why is caffine so readily available? And why do we let our kids drink so many sodas? Hoping this will pass soon!
kikaida says
re: re: Beginning of Week 3...
Hi Patrice,
You and I are kind of in the same boat. The caffeine withdrawals has gotten so bad that I have to see my doctor a lot, psychologist and also a substance abuse counselor. Even with all this in place, I still have a hard time coping with the withdrawals or after affects of caffeine. Now I can sympathize what drug addicts have to go through with withdrawals. In 2007, I did quit caffeine for 5 months but I couldn't deal with the withdrawal symptoms and went back onto caffeine. For 3 years I was all good but now I am back to where I started. I pray and hope that the insomnia, and digestive problems go away. I am scared and do hope that the withdrawals doesn't last as long as it did in 2007. I wouldn't know what to do.
sky girl says
re: oh no, I'm scared
Ok, My caffeine consumption is out of control so I thought I'd be informed before the day is out. It's 1:pm and no coffee but a cup of hot chocolate, and two danishes...sheesh ...after reading all the comments on here I don't think this is a trek I'm ready for yet! I've only stopped drinking 3 months ago and that is why the consumption of caffeine so high.........................I'll keep checking into this site...hang in there everyone... 🙂
kikaida says
re: Digestive Problems
Hi Everyone,
I posted a comment a few days ago. Have any of you after quitting caffeine experienced digestive problems. I have a burning stomach especially while laying down and also really bad constipation. My doctor did advise me that after you quit caffeine, the colon slows down. He told me that it could take months before the colon works properly again. So now I have to take laxatives to have some sort of regularity and it's not daily. It's so frustrating have to deal with so many different medications to counter act the withdrawal symptoms ranging from sleeping pills, laxatives, and acid reflux medication. I am only 41 and I feel like a 60 year old having to take so many medications. I know all we can do is take it one day but I wish the days would go by a lot faster.
mike says
re: dizzy lethargic feeling
How long does the dull tightness on back of head, tired, dizzy, lethargic brain fog last I am on like day 19 i dont have headaches or feel real tired I just dont feel 100% I get pressure and a general sense of lethargicness at times.
Patrice says
re: My own insomnia
Hi Kikaida!
I do feel your pain about insomnia. Never had trouble sleeping before I gave up caffeine 3 weeks ago, but now I wake up after only 3 hours of sleep and am restless from then on. Hope this phase passes soon!
Also, my acid reflux seems to have gotten worse since withdrawal began......which seems the opposite of what I thought would happen.
This entire situation is so terrible, I wish I'd never started drinking coffee in the first place. But I did, and I'm here now, so the best anyone can do is take it one day at a time.
I'm trying to eat healthy and not have any sugar during this time.......maybe that will help you.
Good luck and know that you are not alone in this quest to kick the habit.
Patrice
kikaida says
re: Caffeine Withdrawals Still After 3 Weeks
I was drinking about two to four, 44 oz. of diets cokes or brewed unsweetened iced teas per day for about 18 years and now I am paying the price. I have been off caffeine cold turkey for 3 weeks. I had to quit because of the hot flashes, increased blood pressure and heartburns that I was experiencing. The withdrawal symptoms for me are depression, anxiety, acid reflux, muscle twitching, warm tingling sensation of my forehead and body, constipation and bad insomnia. I seem to have the opposite affect with caffeine when it comes to sleep. In fact after I quit caffeine, I've developed the worse case of insomnia. My doctor has put me on Ambien 10 mgs which doesn't give me enough sleep but it's better than nothing. I don't want to get addicted and dependent on sleeping pills. I've tried everything from drinking herbal teas, taking melatonin...you name it I've tried it. It really sucks not being able to sleep on your own. I am lucky I get even 3-4 hours of sleep per night. There are times I only get 2 hours the whole night, even with taking Ambien. I've tried other sleeping pills and over the counter sleep aides and all gave me the worse side effects. In 2007, I did quit caffeine for 5 months and still had insomnia. I then gave up and starting drinking caffeine again and starting increasing the amount of caffeine intake per day and look at where I am now. It's been pure hell! Your comments and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Another Kim says
re: Tanya, don't give up.
Tanya, don't give up. Feeling like a completely new person is around the corner. Took me 2 weeks. It is amazing how much better you will feel. I'm starting caffeine free again. Was doing great for 4 months than just had one Mt. Dew and fell into the habit again. 🙁 One Mt Dew is great for a little pick me up to do my chores, than I need more and more to get the same lift and to not feel run down. THAN 1 month later I am chugging the stuff to not go through withdrawels and get headaches!!!!!!!! A great book to read is "Caffeine Blues" It goes into detail of the effects of caffeine on your mind and body. I'm here cheering you on!!
Kim
Patrice says
re: Beginning of Week 3....
Hi Everyone!
Hope your holiday weekend was joyful!
This is the beginning of my 3rd week of being caffeine free. I'm actually proud of myself, that through the holiday I only had one tiny slip.......had three sips of coffee on Xmas day.
My headache is still there, but much more tolerable, and the painful cramps in my legs are subsiding. However, I still feel so very tired and lethargic and just feel sick. The dizziness is also still there, and I'm feeling anxious.
One bright spot is that, maybe because I feel so sick, I have no desire to grab my keys and run up to the local Starbuck's for a cup of my poison of choice.
I am very determined to get through this, and never go back. One of the ways that might be helpful in staying on course, is to write everyday in a journal. Perhaps when I feel tempted in the future to have a cup, I can look back and read how horrible was this withdrawal. Maybe that will stop me from sliding down that slope again.
Perhaps caffeine addiction is like any other, once you start to feel better, you forget about all of the damaging effects of the addiction. I never want to go through this again. I won't lie to anyone who is just starting out.....this is horrible.
Here's to a New Year of being caffeine free and healthy!!
Patrice
User says
re: Help?
I'm 15 and I've been drinking coke for a while. Two to three cans a day, and they're small cans. But I got sick and I knew I shouldn't be drinking coke while being sick, so I started to drink orange juice and water.. Well, for a few nights now, I've been feeling like I can't breathe and my heart races and I can't sleep. I went to the doctor and he said everything was fine with me.. So, could I be feeling this way simply because I haven't been drinking coke?
TanyaPeabody says
re: Caffeine withdrawal day 6.
I have been off all caffeine for 6 days now. After a few days of slight headache, I thought that was it, now I am going through other symptoms. Aches and pains and restlessness but I am determined not to give up as I've come this far. I just want everyone to know that milk has been of great help to me. Plain old full cream milk just heated in the microwave and sipped slowly has given me some relief from the symptoms. I have also taken 2 paracetamol when things get really bad. I hope this is of some help to fellow sufferers. Best wishes for Christmas from the Sunshine Coast, Australia.
Denise says
re: Hi Ed,
LOL on your comment
Hi Ed,
LOL on your comment about "getting all hippy" with chamomile, yoga and meditation, but I just want to let you know that (at least based on my experience) what you are going through is definitely part of withdrawing from the caffeine drug. Having a little caffeine WILL ease some of the symptoms, but it's kind of like paying one credit card with another.
I once read that it takes A FULL YEAR for your body to completely return/heal from a caffeine addiction and I believe it. The longest I could go was four months.
It sucks. I hope you hang in there.
Denise says
re: Thank you, Kim!
Hi Kim!
You are going to fight this demon starting the Monday after Christmas, and I'll be cheering you on and thinking of you! I'm going to be traveling that week, so for me, January 1 is the day. I also HATE the thought of starting all over again with the horrible withdrawal, but this time I vow it's for good, God willing.
Also, I am not going to abandon this forum. It's been such a help to me in the past and I came crawling back again now that I'm addicted and want off the rollercoaster. Your idea of CA (Caffeine User) sounds like it's just a joke, but you and I both know that there really should be such a group. Caffeine is an insidious, sneaky addiction and it's probably the worst one of all since it is so cheap and socially acceptable, if not socially expected!
Good luck to you, Kim. Hang tough, OK? I'll be right behind you...
Another Kim says
re: Never giving up!
I'll be right there with you Denise. Monday after Christmas I'm starting all over. That gives me a week of no work and school to de-tox this body ONCE again. UGH...the thought of the 3 days makes me sick. But the fantastic feeling of being caffeine free excites me.
I too can NEVER have just one taste of caffeine without slowly working up to mega doses that wreak havoc on my excercise, diet, weight, thoughts, and mood. Lets start an CA (AA) group for us that have addictive personalities for caffeine. Sure glad I never got into any kind of other drugs, I would be a goner!
Wishing you success!
ed says
re: also get rid of high fructose corn syrup and sugar
While I've had some long term negative side effects from getting rid of caffeine, I have not regretted getting rid of refined sugars, fruit juices and HFCS one bit. I used to have swelling ankles and general puffiness and energy highs and lows (this is all back in the day before coffee/expresso so it was about sodas mostly). Now, on the rare occasion that I drink fruit juice or sodas, I feel giddy and pukey and sure enough my ankle puff up and (embarrassing) my veins on my thighs hurt. Also, I get jock itch and strange stools which I think are both from yeast exploding from all that sugar. Its gross, but I thought I'd share. The energy highs and lows from the sugars in your lemonade might cause you to want to go back to caffeine to mask the sugar's effect.
Ed
ed says
re: why nobody comments if it was easy
Hi
I'm guessing that those of us who have big problems quitting, especially the really bad migraines, are unable to relate 🙂 From watching my wife and friends, and reading around, I've found out that I'm in that unlucky minority that has the problems with caffeine. I think that our genetics are such that we adapt to caffeine levels quickly, so need to up the dose steadily and that we also therefore suffer withdrawal a lot worse.
But I agree that not getting any responses makes you feel a bit lonely at times.
Ed
ed says
re: Diabetes from energy drinks an even bigger prob
At my worst caffeine peak a few years ago, I also drank a few red bulls. The guanine and taurine and stuff really messed with my blood sugar levels. The energy drinks use those chemicals to mess with your bodie's sugar handling mechanisms, so the sugar has an ever bigger rush than normal. Over time, this will give you Type 2 diabetes. I am beginning to think caffeine may have a similar affect on your adrenal glands. I've been off caffeine for a couple of years (cheating a little now to get holiday stuff done) and I still don't feel like I did 10 years ago when I first started drinking it. My baseline energy level is way lower and I'm generally depressed whereas before caffeine i was pretty up all the time and was known to be hyper. i have some friends in AA and I'm starting to think that my brain and body were permanently "etched" by caffeine and stress hormornes like adrenalin and cortisol so that I might never get back to where i was before caffeine. The same is true once you've developed diabetic insulin resistance, even if you control the symptoms with good diet, you'll never be the same as before you abused your body. So please stop now.
Good luck.
ed says
re: Long term problems after quitting 12 cup habit
Hi,
I wanted to know if anybody else feels like they've had long term withdrawal problems. Over about 10 years I went from very little caffeine to needing about 4 cups, or a full dark french press worth in the morning just to avoid a headache. Another at lunch. If I needed to feel up, I'd have several more equivalent shots. I had to quit because I could not sleep if I had any after lunch and if I did that then I'd be a complete bear in the evenings around my family and wake up with a headache in the morning (early withdrawal). My vision would also get blurry if I got stressed out and i got generally sensitive to lights and sound. I finally succeeded in quiting about 3 years ago, after going through terrible acute withdrawal. I get massive migraines (which as a guy, I'd never had before) between days 3-5 of cold turkey. I can get through that because I know it goes away after that. My problem was that I'd feel dumb and slow and had no motivation to do anything. I now know this as mild depression, which I was OK with as long as I could just mope around the house. But I felt that my family needed me to get stuff stuff done, or my wife would complain about low sex drive, and I'd fall off the wagon. To get off completely, I had to quit work and lay low. I'd use what little energy I had to get basic housework done. The depression has lifted verrrrrrry slowly, but worse, I seem to have worse sleep problems than before (I used to lay awake and think too much but now I've developed sleep apnea instead). Also, my nose is dry and swells shut at night, which did not happen when I was obeying my addiction. The apnea literature says that caffeine can help, so I'm trying to figure out what affect coming off of a big addiction has had on the tissues around my throat and nose. If I have a little caffeine, it seems to help a little. But i dont want to have a bunch to see if it clears up completely. In the meantime, I've been trying to take up chamomile, meditation and yoga, but I was raised red neck and its been really hard to get all hippy like this.
Advice welcome,
Ed
ed says
re: pain pills may have caffeine, extend your withdrawal problems
Most people withdraw fairly easily but some of us are more sensitive than others due to genetics. The migraine is failure normal for us. It happens between days 3 and 5. It was so bad the first few times that I tried that i was literally crawling on the floor dragging a puke bucket around and wishing that I could just die, but I had to look after my kids. I took a "migraine" or "tension" headache pain med to get over it but it turns out they have caffeine, so I was not truly withdrawing. The symptoms would come back after a day or two. Try getting off slower, though that will cause you to feel tired for weeks until you finally quit for good as your body must adjust to not having it slowly, its basically spreading the migraine and fatigue out over time instead of all at once. But since you have a kid to look after, that might be the way to go.
User says
re: That was the most striking
That was the most striking thing to me, after being caffeine free for a while my memory improved significantly and my ability to sift through lots of information to focus on relevant points was noticably better. makes work a lot more enjoyable.
Denise says
re: Answer To The Last Two Posts
Hi Everyone. In response to the previous two posts, I would like to offer an update. I was a frequent contributor to this forum, along with someone named Dave, about a year ago. Like you, I had gone through the physical agony of caffeine withdrawal including the nightmare headaches, body aches, pain around my heart and shakes. After four months I felt like a new person! I slept deeply and soundly, had tons of energy and FINALLY had no more tinnitus (ringing in my ears). I stopped coming here to post and everything was going well.
UNTIL one Sunday morning when I smelled that wonderful coffee aroma as my husband brewed a pot and I grabbed a cup. I clearly remember saying to him "Oh, it's been 16 weeks - what harm can one cup do?"
And just like that, I was once again addicted. That cup led to one more that Sunday, one on Tuesday morning, blah blah blah. I sleep like crap again, my ears ring and in all, I'm disgusted with myself. Guess what my New Year's resolution is? 🙂 (Love you guys!)
Patrice says
re: This time I'm serious....
Hi everyone!
Several months ago I posted here about making a statement to the world that I was quitting caffeine for good. Well, things haven't gone so well since then, with me quitting one day and then drinking coffee the next.
However, I started again this past Sunday and it is now day 6 of my withdrawal. I feel horrible!
This past week has been painful in many ways as my body adjusts to the lack of all caffeine. I have the usual severe pounding headache....back of the leg muscle aches.....extreme fatigue...brain fog......etc. The most troubling symptom for me now is the constant dizziness and unsteadiness on my feet.
I had to have my boyfriend go with me to the grocery store yesterday and walk with me, because I feel like falling down. This is very disturbing and scary, and I do hope it is part of the withdrawal.
It is unnerving to think that this drug can cause such extreme withdrawal in me. Obviously it is not good for my body and I am so glad that I'm on my way to getting rid of it forever.
I have tried to eat very healthy during this time and drink lots of water, as others have suggested. Fortunately I have the time to stay home during this and sleep when I want. I pity those that have to work during withdrawal.....don't know how they do it.
Sorry this is so long. I just wanted to touch base again on this site and keep anyone interested abreast of my progress. It always help to know others are feeling the same things.......makes it a little easier somehow.
Good luck to everyone trying to kick this addiction.
Patrice
Another Kim says
re: Falling off the wagon
Ok so, someone posted, long ago, how they were dissatified with comments on this thread because of the lack of discussion and follow up after we all talk about our initial withdrawel symtoms.
I'm wondering if this is because so many of us go back to the caffeine despite the fact that we KNOW that is wreaking havoc on our bodies. And we feel 1000 times better once we are off the poison. Yours truely included. Why is this addiction thing so hard to beat!! It is maddening that I am so weak. Try Try again.....
🙁
User says
re: Caffeine Withdrawals
I quit cold turkey 3 days ago, let me tell you the past 2 days have been pure hell, headaches, chills and fatigue. I can believe how much my body was depending on caffeine!
User says
re: Caffeine and Heartburn
I have suffered with Heartburn for approximately 6 years, I am 51, active (play many sports) and healthy. I know that my Heartburn can be controlled with Omeprazole, but I just don't like the idea of taking drugs long term. So, 3 weeks ago I decided to quit caffeine and have avoided all caffeine related products; tea, chocolate, coke, etc..
The first 4 days I had headaches and avoided taking pain killers as much as possible, finally I got over them and on the 5th day felt great, I thought I had cracked it. However, this lasted just 3 wonderful days, on day 8 my head felt like I was wearing a hat, and I have (on more than one occasion) had to stop and lean against something for fear of falling over when walking. I also stopped taking the Omeprazole on day 8 and have seen a decrease in my Heartburn, but not elimination, hopefully this will come longer term, until then as needed I will take gaviscon.
Days 10 through 18 have been up and down, sometimes totally washed out, others near normal, but the main problem seems to be with my head, I can't remember simple things like; TV characters names on shows I've watched for years, or I forget something I was told 20 mins earlier, it can be frightening when you try to figure out what's going on, it's like you come off Caffeine in waves!
Ultimately I have got this far and will try to get through the next few weeks, hopefully the effects will subside and I will be able to get a normal life again.
Regards,
Paul
User says
re: yes, your body is getting
yes, your body is getting accustomed to having less cafffeine. im not a doctor but it happened to me.
User says
re: I also had insomnia after a
I also had insomnia after a couple days of not drinking coffee, for the first time EVER in my life but it was just one day. It felt really weird because I felt really tired but I couldn't fall asleep. I am on week 3 and I do notice some benefits like more consistent energy but I have been drinking tea. Now I'm drinking decaffeinated tea and I do have like a sad, depressed feeling sometimes that I don't remember feeling but I really want to persevere and be off caffeine. I didn't like the fact that I needed it to start my day and then another two times throughout the day and I think it made me anxious as well.
Moggyfriend says
re: bad withdrawals
As a drinker of 10 - 13 mugs of coffee a day. I thought it was time to stop. I had no caffine on 30/11/10 I had a bit of a dull headache in the evening but other than that I was fine. Woke up on 1/12/10 with the headache still. I took some painkillers. Which dulled the pain so I could get on with the day. By the afternoon. The headache was so bad I could hardly see. I was sick a several times and couldn't fuction. I HAD to have a coffee. Before I'd finished my coffee. The headache had gone and I felt normal again. How can I get myself off caffine, if it has such an effect on my body? If I didn't have a child. I would go cold turkey. No matther what the effect but I can't when I have to look after a one year old. Any advice?
Tyler says
re: Hey it's okay. You'll make it through this day, I say, and Pray.
Trust me, It's a common feeling. I'm on day six and it's horrid. I feel like I'm slowly dying inside. Panic attacks are the worst part. I think I'm going to die every ten minutes with them. And the headaches are absolutely unbearable. I feel like I'm dying because of them. There is hope though. With God and my convictions I'll make it through this storm.
long time addict says
re: Way to go! Hope you update
Way to go! Hope you update everyone at 2 months. Lots of people post and promise but then disappear.
GraduateStudentindebtforlife says
re: 4 weeks off caffeine !
Its always good to hear caffeine free comments from those who are more than a few weeks sober.
Weeks 1-2 Have been horrible. Fatigue, mind fog, uncontrollable appetite, just suckiness.
Week 3 has been OK somewhat, still some brain fog. And if I lifted heavy at the gym, forget it, I was done for; for the rest of the day.
Week 4 has been good.
Benefits:
Consistent energy levels, ALL DAY LONG. Even now at 9:00 I feel the same as if I just woke up.
Appetite is somewhat under control.
My reading, comprehension, memory, has been the best it has EVER been in my life. I understand/retain everything.
The bads:
My workouts at the gym have been horrible. I lost massive amounts of strength and size. Just couldnt get any energy to lift heavy whatsoever.
Depression. This is the 4th week and for the first time in forever, I go through periods of feeling sad. Ironically, it only happens when Im alone.
Other than that I can't wait for the 2 months mark. Hopefully my physical performance will come back to normal.
Steven says
re: I'm on day 14 as well .
The
I'm on day 14 as well .
The first week didn't go too bad. Ya I got headaches the first few days and felt fatigue. But now after the first week and entering the second, I feel horrible. I still have the headaches even to this day...... tired all the time but I can't sleep because I'm getting wicked anxious .
I'll give it 6 months, but this does suck.
Whats worse is I'm at a very difficult graduate school with an intense semester b so i guess I'm taking a gamble hoping it'll pay off.
AJ says
re: reply
Did you know how much of your immune system is controlled by pro-biotics in your digestive system? Do some research. Products like refined sugars discourage pro-biotic growth in your body and encourage the growth of bad bacteria....where as something like honey is PRE-biotic (and in some ways antibiotic) and encourages the growth of good bacteria that help your body.
Coffee isnt the best when you r sick, but it has its own benefits too in other ways.
I suffer from chronic pain issues and stumbled across all the crap we eat affecting overall health (and how you can live without any meds by just eating right). There is a LOT of this kinda info online if you look for it.
User says
re: Too ironic.
I stopped
Too ironic.
I stopped caffeine intake and started drinking Yerba Mate. I read a few excerpts online claiming how it's a great alternative to caffeine so I figured why not .
Well I bought the book Caffeine and Blues and loved....LOVED the quote saying " Don't be fooled by the marketing claims that yerba is a caffeine alternative, it isn't"
So I stopped yerba and low and behold caffeine withdrawel symptoms GALORE !
It's the 11th day for me and this is my experience so far...
Days 1-5 : Just forget about having any hopes of enjoying any part of your day. It's essentially mortal living hell 🙂
Days - 6-10 Are the same, I just felt like creating this segment because I'm bored. Again, these days will suck.
Day 11 (now). Although my energy levels are amazing in the morning, the crash is HARDCORE at night. Perhaps I'm lifting way too heavy in the gym especially coming off caffeine.
I never really had any muscle aches as I'm a gym fanatic ( or maybe because I'm so use to muscle pain from post exercise I don't recognize the difference)
Either way, this is the 2nd time I'm trying to stop caffeine. Although it has a HOST of benefits for exercise....... my life can't be centered around that one hour in the gym.
APG says
re: Dr. Pepper/Soda
My Wife's Uncle drinks somewhere around a 12-pack of Mountain Dew a day. He's been doing it for years. The Dr's looked at him and said the food dye and carbonation have worked it's way into his joints causing him some sort of joint inflammation, but he just can't stop. The last time I saw him at a party he was hitting the Mountain Dew pretty hard! Also, when he talks his mouth sort of smells like rotting. This isn't Diet Dr. Pepper, either, so I hope he can kick the habit. He's been warned by the doctor for a while now.
APG says
re: No Coffee, cut back sugar, pain
Well I was eating so much sugar, carbs and coffee. I am trim and tall and don't get too fat, even when I eat poorly, but still I was pretty bad when I got sick. First, a sinus infection. Then that went away with antibiotics and it became 2 cases of tonsilitis. I've never even had it before! I am 32. Then, that went away nicely, and got a terrible head cold that turned into sinus infection after 7 days.
I went to the health food store, and bought a bunch of stuff. All the books there said the same thing: Sugar and simple carbs are BAD for tonsils. So, when I was very ill, I cut coffee, because it's very bad for you when you're sick. And the sugar got cut back, except a bowl of golden grahams a couple times a week. That's it. Well 2 days after Halloween I fell off the wagon and binged on like 10 snack size candy bars and here we go again, now the tonsils are flared again, even while taking 1000mg/day of Cipro. Imagine that!
So, after quitting coffee, I had the sinus headache in front above the teeth and above the eyebrows and in the eye sockets AND the coffee headache, PLUS all assorted aches and pains, including leg aches and joint aches. The aches and fatigue never went away, so, 3 days into Cipro, they're still there...general malaise, sleepiness...it's been 8 days off Caffeine and I still feel so crappy, so so tired. I feel like I could sleep for days.
User says
re: That can slow your metabolism
That can slow your metabolism down and then you won't be losing weight after a while... Although it would be good to cleanse your system. Don't go overboard and put your body under too much stress. Instead, try to get the right amount of sleep at night (not sleeping enough can cause you to feel hungrier, a lot hungrier), eating healthy foods that give your body the nutrients it needs, which means REAL food, like fruits and veggies, and exercise. Work with the level you are at. When I started running, all i did was 5 min, and then whew! I was through, but eventually I worked my way up to 10 min, 20, 30, then an hour! It took awhile to get to that point, but it's most certainly possible, and its great to see how much you can do! Remember to take care of your body, avoid caffeine and "diet" drinks, and gum too. They mess with your insulin levels and can make it harder to lose weight. Try eating things like oatmeal, and beans to keep your insulin levels steadier, and proteins like eggs to keep your hunger and cravings at bay. If you like to do extremes, go to the extreme with healthy delicious food! With getting great rest, and challenging yourself with an intense workout.
Best wishes to you