Nutrition expert Dr. Irina Pissareva stated that the habit of starting the day with coffee can gradually turn into a serious addiction that is difficult to get rid of, as a result of increasing dependence on caffeine.
The doctor explained that drinking coffee triggers a strong craving for caffeine due to its effect on stimulating the production of happiness hormones, energizing the body, and improving concentration. However, she warned that this beverage, despite its benefits, can negatively affect sleep quality and the health of the nervous system.
What happens to the body when you stop drinking coffee?
According to Pisarova, suddenly stopping coffee consumption can lead to withdrawal symptoms because the body quickly adapts to the energy provided by caffeine. During the first few days, a person may experience several side effects, most notably:
Headaches caused by dilation of blood vessels in the brain;
Feeling drowsy due to a lack of caffeine;
Irritability, resulting from decreased stimulation of happiness hormones;
Digestive system disturbances, due to the effect of caffeine on bowel movements.
The doctor added that these symptoms usually last four to five days, then gradually subside. After about four weeks, the person experiences renewed energy and a noticeable improvement in their overall condition.
She confirmed that quitting coffee has a positive effect on health, as sleep becomes deeper, easier to fall asleep and wake up from, mood improves, anxiety decreases, and blood pressure may return to normal levels in some cases.
Pisarova advised gradually reducing coffee consumption rather than stopping abruptly to avoid worsening withdrawal symptoms. She noted that if someone is accustomed to drinking four to five cups a day, it's best to reduce the amount to two or three cups for the first two weeks, then to one cup in the third week, before stopping completely once the body has adjusted to lower caffeine levels
The doctor explained that certain groups should completely stop consuming coffee, especially those suffering from chronic digestive disorders, cardiovascular diseases, or mental health conditions. These conditions include gastritis, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and high blood pressure.
Pisarova concluded by noting that the acceptable daily amount of coffee, in the absence of health contraindications, is two to three cups (200 milliliters per cup) without adding sugar or flavorings, pointing out that one cup contains about 90–100 milligrams of caffeine, while the safe amount for daily consumption is estimated at about 400 milligrams.
