Unfiltered: Going coffee free… for now
Let me begin by saying that I cherish a morning coffee. The aroma, the warmth, and the ritual of sipping it while chatting with friends or a loved on. It is liquid gold and it’s a simple pleasure that brings joy.
But…lately, I’ve been questioning my caffeine habit.
Am I reliant on it?
What impact does it have on my energy levels?
Why does a cappuccino now cost as much as a small meal?
Join me on my caffeine-free journey as I explore these questions and share my experiences.
The Why Behind My Coffee Break
I call it my “caffeine curiosity.” It’s not about demonizing coffee; rather, it’s about finding balance. I believe in the middle path—neither glorifying nor shaming any one thing. So, for the past week, I’ve skipped my daily cup of joe and this is WHY.
Anxiety: Coffee has a stimulating effect on our “fight or flight” hormones. I’ve been a little bit more stressed than usual, so decided to explore whether reducing caffeine might assist alleviate this effect.
Iron Absorption: Tannins and polyphenols in coffee can hinder iron absorption. As someone with low iron levels, reducing my coffee intake might help me absorb iron more effectively and feel more rested.
The Reset: Sometimes, it’s nice to hit the reset button. A break from coffee can allow me to recalibrate and observe how my body responds. Plus, I imagine my first sip is going to taste so damn good!
The Caffeine Withdrawal Journey
Days 1-3
Caffeine withdrawal symptoms hit hard. Like really hard. I was experiencing headaches, low energy, mood swings, lack of concentration and even constipation—it’s like a proper detox. It’s hard and so much of me was like…”I could just have a coffee and I’ll literally perk back up.” I had to spend a bit of time reflecting on my why to reconnect to the discipline of just a few short days to see what is on the other side.
Days 4-7
As I write this on day 7, I’ve crossed the threshold. Gone are the head aches, the brain fog. In fact. I feel more settled, with a calmer disposition throughout the day. My energy flow seems steadier and I’ve been feeling a whole lot less stressed. I’m feeling super inspired to keep this up and I don’t feel like I am missing out at all. In fact, I feel like I am winning.
My Allies in This Journey
I didn’t quit coffee by going cold turkey. In fact, experts recommend gradually reducing caffeine intake to avoid ALL OF THE ABOVE detox symptoms Instead, I’ve replaced my daily coffee ritual with intentionally crafted cacao, herbs or herbal tea.
Cacao
Cacao contains only 0.2% caffeine per bean weight, compared to coffee’s 1.01% - 2.4%1.
Theobromine, abundant in cacao, provides a smoother, longer-lasting energy boost without the jitters .
I have been stocking up of Creation Cacao for the past 6 months now. Ceremonial Cacao is more than a gloried (yet delicious) hot chocolate. When sipped with reverence it can be a heart opening experience, and I love to include it in my ritual of journaling and practicing meditation / yoga.
Herbs
Additionally, I’ve been using Jing, a potent herbal supplement from Superfeat, Its incredible product includes
Cordyceps sinensis
Eucommia bark
Goji Berry
Cistanche stem
Asparagus Root
Rehmannia root
This blend works together to naturally tap into your body's vitality, offering clean, steady energy throughout the day, free from caffeine-induced jitters or crashes.
Crafted specifically for our modern fast-paced life, JING helps support kidney health, crucial for managing stress, reducing fatigue, and enhancing physical and mental health.
Literally ALL the things I’ve been looking for.
Join Me!
If you’re even a little bit curious about a caffeine free week? Maybe even month? Let me know! I’m defintiely going to keep riding the wave a little longer!
P.s. You can also use my discount code for both Creation Cacao & Superfeast “brianna10” for 10% off your orders. This is a genuine affiliation and products that I know, love and support so deeply.
