Are you a caffeine junkie?

Coffee - healthy or unhealthy?

Are you one of those people who drink a lot of coffee or do you only enjoy a cup now and then? 

Most people probably claim that they don't drink much coffee. The reasons for this also vary. Taste, increased concentration, improved physical performance and aiding digestion are often the main reasons.

➤ But is this kind of stimulant really good for our health?

If you take a closer look at the effects of caffeine on the body, the supposed benefits such as energy production or digestive stimulation can be refuted. So should we avoid it altogether?

But first things first.

It is clear that coffee does have its benefits. It makes us feel more alert, more focused and ready to perform better. And not everyone needs to go through coffee withdrawal. However, if you notice that you can't function without your daily coffee, or that you become nervous, anxious or irritable, you should think about it. 

➤ Almost 60% of coffee lovers drink a cup several times a day!

What is the problem with caffeine?

1. caffeine - a drug?

Caffeine consumption is increasing worldwide. We not only consume coffee, but also other drinks that contain caffeine. Caffeine is a psychoactive substance and acts on us like a drug. Even a small amount of coffee, such as 1 cup a day, can cause withdrawal symptoms. Depending on how sensitive you are to caffeine.

The problem with this is that regular coffee consumption exhausts the adrenal glands, as adrenaline is constantly being produced. At some point, you need more and more coffee or caffeine to get the same effect - as with other drugs.

➤ Caffeine is the most widely used drug in the world!

2. caffeine stresses us out

Caffeine stimulates our adrenal glands to produce adrenaline. The stress hormone has always been important for our survival, as it puts us into fight or flight mode. So when we drink coffee, the caffeine it contains simulates a threat. The body prepares itself and raises blood sugar levels to release the additional energy it needs. In reality, however, we are not in danger and do not have to fight or flee. A constant caffeine intake leads our body into a permanently unnecessary stress situation.

3. too much caffeine leads to intoxication

Caffeine intoxication is a recognized clinical syndrome. Depending on your own developed tolerance, this can occur with around 4-7 cups of coffee per day - earlier for some, later for others. Intoxication is defined by specific symptoms that occur as a direct result of heavy caffeine consumption. These include anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, gastrointestinal complaints, heart rhythm disturbances and more.

4. without caffeine we feel drained of energy

Caffeine gives us what feels like a quick energy boost. In the long term, however, it drains our body. This is because caffeine does not actually provide us with energy, but only stimulates energy production. This puts a lot of strain on the adrenal glands. In order to maintain energy levels, we have to constantly replenish our energy levels. However, as we all know, after the high comes the fall and we find ourselves in a real energy slump, from which it is difficult to get out without replenishment. Caffeine therefore causes our energy reserves to be used up more quickly.

5. caffeine promotes stomach problems

The best known stomach problem caused by coffee is hyperacidity. This is because coffee and caffeine are considered to be highly acidifying foods. Coffee also has a laxative effect. However, the body can no longer count on this if coffee is withdrawn and the next problem arises: constipation.

6. caffeine is not suitable for risk groups

Coffee and the caffeine it contains are unsuitable for diabetics, as the release of the stress hormone adrenaline causes blood sugar levels to rise. Blood sugar fluctuations are the result.

Coffee can also have an unfavorable effect on cardiovascular diseases, as caffeine increases the heart rate. The body believes that it is in a dangerous situation.

➤ Diabetics should avoid caffeine!

Gaining energy without coffee - how does it work?

1) Consume enough and, above all, the right nutrients

 These help to supply the body with energy in a natural and simple way. 

• Maca: has a positive effect on the body's energy levels. People who use Maca report that they feel more energetic. Maca has a gentler effect compared to coffee and also stabilizes blood sugar levels. 
• Cordyceps: is considered an energizing adaptogen and helps with chronic exhaustion or bouts of weakness. The mushroom is particularly popular with athletes to boost performance. 
• Ashwagandha: is also a natural adaptogen. It promotes stress reduction, restful sleep and more energy.
• B vitamins: are responsible for converting food into energy. They help to maintain normal energy levels. 
• Iron: Caffeine prevents iron absorption and is therefore considered the main trigger for exhaustion. This is because caffeine inhibits the red blood cells in their important task of transporting oxygen. 
• Magnesium: Our body cannot produce energy without magnesium. The mineral is involved in energy metabolism and is considered fuel for our body.

2) Get enough sleep

If we get enough sleep, we also feel rested and fit the next day. A lack of sleep leads to poorer cognitive performance and impaired motor skills.

3) Exercise regularly

Physical exercise helps to recharge your batteries in the long term by boosting your metabolism. Even a daily walk makes a difference. Get active!

Conclusion:

Coffee or caffeine stimulates the adrenal glands so that adrenaline is released. This gives our body the illusion of a short-term energy boost. A constant supply puts a strain on the adrenal glands. As a result, the body is completely drained, exhausted and tired due to the artificially induced stimulation.

Switch to natural sources of energy. Exercise and sleep are most effective when combined with the right nutrients. Stop overexploiting your body and give it what it needs to start the day with full energy!