Non-Caffeine Diet

A caffeine-free diet entails consuming no coffee -- even decaffeinated -- and eliminating chocolate, certain ice creams and energy drinks from your diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, a daily caffeine intake over about 500 or 600 mg per day is dangerous for anyone. Your doctor may recommend a caffeine-free diet to help relieve one of several medical conditions.

Indications

A non-caffeine diet may be recommended if you suffer from insomnia, excessive stress or anxiety, nervousness, or if you are prone to heart palpitations. Caffeine reduction may also be recommended for individuals with hypertension, or those with certain neurological conditions. Caffeine has been shown to reduce the seizure threshold, so individuals with epilepsy may follow a caffeine-free diet for seizure control. A caffeine-free diet may also be advisable if you are taking other stimulant substances, such as prescription medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.

Effects

According to the Mayo Clinic website, a caffeine-free diet may help to reduce problems such as anxiety, nervousness and insomnia. A randomized trial reported in the journal "Surgery" in 1982 found that a caffeine-free diet reduced the size of breast lumps in women with benign breast disease. Since caffeine has a dehydrating effect on the body, a caffeine-free diet will aid hydration and kidney function.

Instigation

If you have been a heavy consumer of caffeine, your caffeine-free diet will need to be started in steps and with individual medical advice. Gradually reduce the amount of caffeine you consume each day, until your diet comprises only caffeine-free foods and drinks.

Compliance

Complying with a caffeine-free diet means that you will eliminate all caffeine-containing foods and drinks from your diet. These include coffee, tea, chocolate, caffeinated sodas and energy drinks. Coffee-flavored ice creams, and certain medications, also contain caffeine, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Be aware that decaffeinated tea and coffee is not caffeine-free.

Side Effects

Caffeine withdrawal may initially lead to some side effects, such as headaches, migraine and fatigue. Because caffeine acts as an appetite suppressant, you may find that your appetite increases when you are following a caffeine-free diet. You may also find that you require more sleep in order to avoid fatigue without caffeine to keep you awake. Be particularly careful when driving during the early stages of a caffeine-free diet.