Decaffeinate to Stay Cigarette- and Stress-Free

Smokers attribute tobacco use to stress relief and increased energy, but there are healthier ways to stay relaxed, focused, and alert. One of those ways is to reduce caffeine intake. It may seem counter intuitive — caffeine is supposed to keep you alert, right? — but ingesting too much of the chemical can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and make you feel jittery and unfocused.

Caffeine and stress both elevate cortisol levels in the body, which, which, when elevated for a prolonged period of time can have negative health consequences. Staying away from energy drinks and shots and too much coffee is a great way to naturally reduce stress and cortisol levels without having to rely on any outside substances.

But we understand that coffee is an important part of people’s morning ritual. That’s why we recommend slowly weaning yourself off the big, early-morning dose of caffeine by trying a different variety of equally-satisfying drinks. A half-caf coffee (half decaf and half regular) is one option that allows you to recreate the taste and aroma of regular coffee but with less caffeine. Herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, ginger, and hibiscus are another option. Largely caffeine-free, these flavorful blends of herbs, flowers, and spices possess the same warm, soothing characteristics of coffee.

This Monday, reduce your stress and desire for a cigarette by toning down your daily caffeine intake.