Caffeine Alternatives: Ways to Kick Your Caffeine Addiction

According to a study by the FDA, 80 percent of U.S. adults consume some form of caffeine each day, “the average adult has an intake of 200 mg per day, the amount in two 5-ounce cups of coffee or four sodas.” With pumpkin spice latte season back in action we couldn’t help but wonder if there are better ways to get a much needed boost of energy. We reached out to Dr. Coral Arvon, Director of Behavioral Medicine and Wellness, Pritikin Longevity Center & Spa to find out great ways to kick your caffeine habit and get a natural jolt of energy!

by Dr. Coral Arvon, Director of Behavioral Medicine and Wellness, Pritikin Longevity Center & Spa

Caffeine (coffee) addiction is one of the most common addictions we indulge in today. With being available 24/7, working 10-12 hour days, and just trying to keep up with life…you might feel the need for a lift. Hence sleep less, work more, and drink tons of coffee to get that jolt during the day.

To beat this psychological addiction you need to fill the void in several ways:

• Take a breather: If you can take a few days or a week and get out of the rat race that would be awesome, but if time is not on your side lets try going to sleep earlier for starters.
• Break a sweat: Jump right out of bed in the morning and start moving that body. People who linger in bed tend to feel (or think) they are lazy and need that cup to get going.
• Lighten up: Try keeping your house bright and well lit. Research states that open, bright homes lower melatonin levels which keep you alert and energized. So does the color yellow. Try keeping yellow flowers all around the house.
• Chow down: Eat regular meals and include 3 healthy snacks so you don’t think you need a pick me up.
• Switch it up: Lastly, if you replace coffee with interesting, special non- caffeinated herbal teas everyday for 3 weeks you will have developed a new habit, but a much healthier one.