More on caffeine – updated 6 Feb 2024
Australians love their caffeine.
Caffeine’s Downsides
However, consuming caffeine can come with side effects, such as insomnia, anxiety, increased heart rate, addiction, and the ‘crash’ that occurs several hours after consumption. Not to mention that caffeine can block the absorption of some essential nutrients – think about this when having coffee (or tea) with meals or taking your supplements! And, then there’s the pH or acidic nature of caffeine
More than 1 in 4 (27%) Australians state they cannot survive the day without coffee and 75% state they have at least one cup a day.
You’re not alone if you seek caffeine to break through fatigue and brain fog so you can feel alert and focused. However, if you’d like to feel energised without the side effects of caffeine, consider support with herbal medicine instead – consult your qualified naturopath.
While caffeine does demonstrate the capacity to increase concentration and focus for 1 to 3 hours following consumption, but the ‘crash’ that occurs after that time results in the return of brain fog, fatigue, and poor focus. Herbal options can increase focus for up to 5 hours, without the ‘crash’ and evidence also shows this herb to have no negative effect on sleep, heart rate and mood, and is non-addictive.
Food Matters have compiled a very informative summary about whether or not coffee is good for us. It is well worth a read, especially if you or someone you know has Type 2 Diabetes.
http://www.hungryforchange.tv/article/10-reasons-to-quit-coffee-plus-healthy-alternatives
I would like to suggest a further coffee alternative – dandelion tea. Enjoy.