caffeine

Coffee, Coke, Tea... what's your poison?

I personally have almost zero tolerance for caffeine anymore.  But I read an interesting article and want to pass on what I learned.

Coffee itself contains more antioxidants than other beverages.  It can possibly lower the risks of liver cancer and type 2 diabetes, whether it is caffeinated or not.  Caffeinated coffee may reduce incidence of gallstones and lower the risk of Parkinson's.

Caffeine in any form can improve focus, memory, reduce fatigue, and possibly stave off Alzheimer's.  There are a lot of claims as to the benefits of caffeine.

So enjoy your daily cuppa whatever and don't feel guilty about it.  

But we do need to remember that caffeine is a drug.  You need to decide how much you are willing to be controlled by that substance.  If you can't say no - then it is controlling you.

The article I read suggests that if you need the caffeine to function then you likely have an underlying problem that should be addressed.  Poor sleep, bad diet or perhaps a thyroid or other metabolic problem.

It is recommended that you take breaks from your caffeine habit on a regular basis.  Cut back gradually and eat a more alkaline diet, which would be more fruits and veggies and less carbs, cheese and meat.  Increase your vitamin C, B complex,  and calcium and magnesium to help you through the process of quitting.

Like every good thing, we need to maintain moderation.  So enjoy your coffee, coke, tea, or whatever, but you be the one in charge.