Kill the Coffee Habit for Good

The numerous coffee shops around cities and towns are proof that millions of people jump-start their day with a cup of coffee. Sure, its taste and smell delight the senses. But for the sake of your health, you should try to give it up, or at least reduce your intake, as coffee may do more harm than good to your body. Studies have found that it raises blood pressure and stress levels and can lead to heart palpitations, jitters and nervousness if consumed in large quantities.

You can’t just give up coffee cold turkey. Caffeine is addictive. If you give it up too fast, you’ll feel symptoms like a headache, fatigue, depression and nausea. Avoid withdrawal symptoms (especially if you drink several cups a day) by weaning yourself slowly. Cut down on the amount of coffee you drink over a few days or a few weeks. Gradually halve the amount of coffee you drink each day. If you drink six cups a day, cut to three, then one, and to a half. If you have withdrawal symptoms, do it more gradually. You can also try replacing your caffeinated coffee with decaf. Drink the same number of cups, but change the decaf-regular ration until you are drinking all decaf.

Many people love sipping their coffee, reading the paper and munching on a donut or other breakfast treat. You don’t have to give up that ritual just because you are cutting coffee out of your life. You can drink herbal tea, which contains less caffeine than coffee, plus is full of health benefits. Studies have found that tea combats heart disease, lowers cholesterol, protects skin and strengthens bones and teeth.You can also try vegetable juice or hot chocolate to give you a morning energy boost without the effects of caffeine.

START YOUR DAY WITHOUT A CUP OF COFFEE

Yes, you can make it through the day without that cup of joe. Here are some ways to live a coffee-free life:

* Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night to feel rested.

* Open the shades and turn on the lights when you get up in the morning. Bright light signals the brain that it’s time to wake up.

* Eat a high-protein breakfast to boost energy. Avoid sugary pastries and cereals that give you a quick high and then an energy low.

* Exercise in the morning to promote energy in your body.