How to set free from Caffeine

How to set free from Caffeine? First let’s address why we should consider it. Quitting caffeine can be beneficial for migraines as it can help to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms. Caffeine is a stimulant that constricts blood vessels, which can trigger a headache. Additionally, it can cause dehydration, which is another common trigger for migraines. By quitting caffeine, you can help to prevent these triggers and reduce the occurrence.

There are two ways: Cold Turkey or Gradually. The second option is less dramatic and painful so let’s start there:

Gradual process

• Decrease consumption gradually, by reducing the amount of caffeine consumed per day. I started cutting back 50% of the beverages consumed in a day for a couple of weeks and gradually reducing to 0% over the course of 1 month.
• Switch to decaf: one tip to accomplish the above is to replace caffeinated drinks with decaf versions. I didn’t do it as the flavour is not the same but it’s an option to consider.
• Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening: I found this step hard, I got a massive headache at night, sleeping early to relieve the pain helped.
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help flush the caffeine out of your system and alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
• Get support: Let your loved ones know! Consider enlisting the support of family and friends, or joining a support group to help you through the process of quitting caffeine.

By following these steps, you can successfully quit caffeine and reduce a vestibular migraine trigger for good.

Cold Turkey Process

Quitting caffeine cold turkey involves abruptly stopping the consumption of all caffeinated products. All I am going to say here is “it hurts”!! I’ve done it 3 times so far, I have not been able to resist the temptation as I love coffee so much. Here are the steps to follow:

• Preparation: Take courage! Then if possible ask for a few days of vacation or plan it over the weekend, if you have a high degree of addiction you will get very sick.
• Set a quit date: pick a date and stick to it, avoid making excuses to postpone.
• Remove caffeine sources from your home and workplace. This may include coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks, chocolate, and some medications.
• Stay hydrated: Lots of water and I will recommend Chamomile tea to help with sore muscles and pain.
• Prepare for withdrawal symptoms! I had them all: headaches, fatigue, irritability, upset stomach, flashing lights, light and sound sensitivity and depression. Try to get extra sleep as best as possible.
• Stay positive: Focus on the benefits of quitting caffeine, it will pass after 2-3 days.
• Avoid relapse: This is where I failed, could not avoid temptation and the urge to consume coffee. I will suggest to find a beverage that can give you similar level of comfort and joy.

All in all it’s a tough process but with the right mindset, preparation, and support, you can successfully overcome the withdrawal symptoms and be caffeine free!!