Many Americans cannot function at work without their cup of coffee, or caffeine, in the morning. Caffeine gives you a boost in energy to start and get through the day. If you suffer from an anxiety disorder, such as generalized anxiety disorder, caffeine may heighten your symptoms. So, find other sources of energy in the morning, such as a workout to get your heart rate up or a breakfast filled with whole grains.
Anxiety and Paranoia From Caffeine
Even if you don't suffer from an anxiety or paranoia disorder, caffeine may make you feel anxious and heighten general paranoia. An article in the "Independent" cites a study indicating that excess caffeine consumption can induce paranoia and aggression. One 8-oz. cup of coffee contains approximately 95 mg to 200 mg of caffeine. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and the dosage effects everyone slightly differently. If you drink coffee every day this amount may not effect you; however, if you don't normally consume caffeine this serving may cause you to feel symptoms associated with anxiety, such as restlessness, irritability and anxiousness, according to MedlinePlus. You may experience the same symptoms if you are a chronic coffee drinker and add an energy drink to the mix, as these also contain caffeine.
Caffeine Sources
Caffeine is naturally present in coffee and tea, unless you choose caffeine-free options, which are stripped of their caffeine content during processing. Tea generally contains half of the amount of caffeine as coffee. Beware of foods that contain caffeine, such as anything with chocolate or derived from kola nuts. Certain medications, such as some pain relievers, contain caffeine as well, so opt for nighttime medicines if you wish to cut down your caffeine consumption. Energy drinks and soft drinks are loaded with caffeine and can drastically heighten feelings of anxiety and paranoia if you are sensitive to it.
Natural Treatments
There are natural ways to calm symptoms of anxiety and paranoia brought on by caffeine, such as herbal teas. Chamomile and valerian teas are commonly used to calm nerves and relax you before bed to help you sleep. Kava is another herb that helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety without making you feel sedated, according to MayoClinic.com. B vitamins may also help counter the effects of caffeine because they aid in the production of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood, such as serotonin.
Warning
Along with symptoms of anxiety and paranoia, excess caffeine intake may cause headaches and irregular heart patterns, and inhibit sleep. If you wish to cut down your caffeine consumption, do so gradually because if you stop suddenly you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Pregnant and nursing women should restrict caffeine intake. Also, talk with your doctor to make sure that your current medications don't interact with caffeine and if your anxiety or paranoia symptoms don't subside once you stop using caffeine.
Member Comments