Breaking the Coffee Habit: A Guide to Boosting Health

For some of us, the idea might sound hopeless, but taking a break from coffee, even for a short period, is important for our health and well-being.

Research points to some benefits of drinking coffee. There's a grain of truth in that – coffee does have a few perks. However, it is highly addictive.

Some individuals handle small amounts of coffee without much issue, but others may find that even a little can harm them significantly. Overall, excessive consumption is detrimental to both body and mind.

Consuming more than four cups of coffee a day can stimulate the body in ways that may affect the brain, leading to anxiety, restlessness, headaches, sleep problems, and more. Initially, reducing your intake might lower your energy, but it will improve sleep quality.

Caffeine exits the bloodstream after about five hours, meaning afternoon coffee can make it hard to fall asleep, and when you do sleep, the quality is compromised, affecting your energy the next day.

Moreover, drinking coffee can lead to enamel erosion on teeth, teeth discoloration, and bad breath.

Coffee raises acidity in the stomach, which can cause digestive discomfort and heartburn.

Caffeine stimulates and irritates the nervous system, creating a dependency just to wake up—a feeling of needing coffee. In reality, even an apple or another fruit can revitalize us effectively.

Want to quit coffee? First, believe you can—pray and commit to your decision.

Start the process when you have the time—not during a move or another major task.

If you're drinking more than three cups a day, it's advisable to quit gradually: first, replace 2-3 cups with other beverages for a week, then progress from there.

The ritual of making coffee is part of the daily routine, so at those times, find a substitute activity. Prepare a coffee alternative or some herbal tea.

In the initial phase, you can mix half a teaspoon of your usual coffee with a coffee substitute made from grains or chicory. This will make the transition less challenging.

If you experience headaches during withdrawal, drink green tea, which contains caffeine but in lesser amounts. It will help, and green tea is also rich in antioxidants and beneficial.

Incorporate as many fresh fruits and vegetables into your daily diet. It's crucial for those who feel they can't function without coffee.

Anyone can take back control of their choices and not be ruled by them.

Zohara Sharvit is a licensed naturopathN.D and an iridologist with extensive experience in treatment, consultation, and workshop facilitation. To schedule a free workshop, call073-2221290