Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant whose effects are felt quickly because it is very efficiently processed and absorbed by your body. Tea, coffee and chocolate are all sources of caffeine. While moderate caffeine consumption, around 200 mg per day, can be beneficial, excessive consumption is not advised and can result in caffeine addiction.
Caffeine and Headaches
While caffeine can be used to treat headaches, it can also cause headaches. Specifically, withdrawal from caffeine contributes to the formation of headaches. Because caffeine is an addictive substance, when you try to give it up, you will experience withdrawal symptoms. A headache is a very common withdrawal symptom. Excessive caffeine consumption can also lead to difficulty sleeping, increased heart rate and anxiety, all of which can be contributing factors or triggers for headaches.
Benefits of Detox
If you are concerned about the amount of caffeine you consume, a detox from caffeine may be a good solution. Giving up caffeine and detoxifying your body from caffeine can result in fewer headaches in the long run. With less caffeine in your system, you will sleep better and feel calmer, both of which will also contribute to fewer headaches. Giving up caffeine can also result in increased energy levels and a more positive mood.
Side Effects of Detox
Not all of the effects of a detoxification from caffeine are positive. While you are detoxifying your body from caffeine addiction, your headaches may increase for a period of time. You may initially experience lethargy and depression. Discomfort in your muscles is also a common withdrawal symptom. MedlinePlus notes that some people who are very addicted to caffeine may even experience nausea or vomiting. All these side effects will pass with time as caffeine loses its hold on your body.
Slow Detox
The best way to detoxify your body from the harmful effects of caffeine is slow reduction of the amount of caffeine you consume, according to CaffeineAwareness.org. With slow reduction, you can reduce the amount and severity of the side effects you experience while detoxifying. Consider replacing one caffeinated beverage with a non-caffeinated choice. Allow your body a few days to adjust to the reduction before slashing more caffeine from your diet. If the caffeine reduction you have chosen results in symptoms that are too severe, retreat and add the caffeine back in to ease your symptoms. Then proceed with a smaller reduction in the amount of caffeine you consume.
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