For many people caffeine is an itch that they must scratch daily. For
the most part for those who use caffeine each day, they probably use
too much. Caffeine isn't always in the form of coffee, many people
drink too much cola as well. Drinking cola is a double whammy. Not only
does it contain the caffeine but it is loaded with sugar.
That morning cup of coffee to get you going isn't a problem. For most
people it does help wake them up and become more alert. For many, it's
that morning cup of coffee that helps jump start their day and become
more worthwhile. But like anything else if you drink more caffeine than
you should, this can have the opposite effect of what you intend. Too
much caffeine can cause a rebound effect and leave you feeling even
more drained of your energy than when you started out. Additionally,
too much caffeine constantly in your system can cause you to have
problems getting the proper sleep at night. This can become a very big
problem.
You may not consider this a problem, but in fact it is. People do get
addicted to caffeine. Your body can become dependent upon it. If you've
ever suffered from the shakes, or headaches from caffeine withdrawal
you know what I'm talking about. Having the shakes or headaches when
you don't get your caffeine fix, is simply your body letting you know
that it is craving its caffeine fix.
Caffeine is a great pick me up. From that morning cup of Joe to the
extra pep it gives you in your energy drink, it can be very helpful.
The key thing is, you must use it right. You can't over due it.
Caffeine can have very bad side effects if not used properly. Studies
show that drivers who think they can substitute caffeine for sleep are
a risk to everyone on the road. Your reaction times are slower and that
may cause you to have an accident.
Understanding how to properly use caffeine is a key to keeping it in
perspective. A cup of coffee while cramming for an exam is a great way
to re-energize and can help you get through that last chapter. However,
grabbing an extra shot of caffeine to keep you more alert while
operating a a vehicle or other potentially dangerous machinery is
obviously not a good use of caffeine. But what do you use when you need
a little pick me up and you don't want to go the caffeine route?
Avoid foods high in sugar. Don't run for a candy bar when you are
feeling sluggish. Don't drink sodas with your lunch. This will give you
a burst of energy, but it will make you tired when the energy is gone.
I would suggest to you that you keep some fruit on hand for when you
are feeling sluggish. Keep an apple in your desk or some other fruit
that you can easily eat and not have to prepare. You can also try
pears, peaches, or oranges. You do have to peel an orange, so that
might not be the best solution for you if you need a pick me up right
away.
Drinking juice is another excellent way to add some needed energy.
Although juices may be just a bit more expensive than sodas, your
energy will be more stable not to mention you'll be more healthy. Be
creative with your juice drinks. Don't be afraid to mix some of your
favorite juices in different proportions to achieve a new flavor. There
is absolutely no and to the types of juice drinks that you can make up
and enjoy.
A serving of juice will help you regain your strength. It will give you
the energy you need to get through the day. You might also want to
drink juice with your lunch. If you do this instead of drinking sodas,
you won't get burnt out as fast. Energy bars are a great thing if you
have them on hand. Don't get ones that are full of sugar or honey. That
will give you a burnt out feeling. Instead, go with something that is
good for you. I have seen some chocolate covered energy bars, don't get
this. Run like hell from these bars. It is a expensive candy bar.
The important point to remember about caffeine is common sense and
moderation. Having that morning cup of coffee is perfectly okay to do.
Just don't let any morning cup of coffee turn into multiple cups of
coffee in the morning just to get you started. And above all and never
substitute caffeine and sugars for sleep. Don't ever falsely believe
that you can readily revive yourself from being tired or overcome any
state of tiredness by throwing caffeine at it. Particularly when it
comes to driving a car. Caffeine for a quick pick me up is great, just
know when it isn't.
