Sleep Better and Kick the Coffee Habit

For the majority of Americans, the morning just wouldn’t be the same without a big jolt of caffeine to help them start the day. But, if they simply got enough sleep each night, they’d wake up feeling great every morning without needing the chemical boost. With over 68 million Americans drinking three cups of coffee or more a day, it’s safe to say caffeine addiction is a national pastime. For people that are addicted to caffeine, not being able to have their morning coffee is a serious issue. Caffeine withdrawal can give you a big headache and/or muscle pain throughout the body.

Although being addicted to caffeine isn’t as dangerous as being dependant on nicotine or alcohol, it can cause health problems down the road. Caffeine is known to cause high blood sugar, a reduction in serotonin release, sleep disruption, caffeine tolerance and malnutrition. Given the potential problems that stem from caffeine addiction, why not go the healthy, natural route by improving your nightly sleep habits instead of being forced to drink coffee in the morning? You’ll feel better and be on the road to better health.

Here are a few tips to kick the caffeine habit and wake up naturally:

1. Be aware of what you’re consuming – Caffeine isn’t jus in coffee. It’s found in heavy amounts in sodas, energy drinks and tea and is also present in chocolate, gum and even ice cream. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also contain caffeine and can be habit-forming.

2. Taper down your caffeine consumption – This is an easier and more comfortable way to break the caffeine addiction. If you usually drink three cups of coffee a day, switch to two every day for a week, then one, until you’re off the drink completely.

3. Try something new – Although there can be caffeine in tea, there is usually less than a cup of coffee. Try switching drinks and see if your thirst for caffeine doesn’t diminish a bit.

4. Water down your caffeinated beverages – This can help you slowly wean your way off of the stimulant.

5. Ever try decaf?

6. Ask yourself an extra time – Before filling your cup at work or stopping by the local coffee show in the morning, ask yourself an extra time, do I need this cup of coffee or can I do without?

7. Brew less – If you’re a tea drinker, steep your tea for half the time, this will reduce the amount of caffeine you’re consuming.

8. Order a small – If you normally grab a huge, 24 oz coffee in the morning, take it easy. Go for 12 oz and see if you actually notice the difference.