Hi Reinasunshine,

Coffee can be habit forming. I personally never drink coffee. However; I have many friends that partake in the daily ritual of drinking coffee. Starbucks is a household word for a reason....People love coffee!

For some, a cup of coffee in the morning can set your body up for a day of highs and lows. When the artificial high wears off you most likey reach for some other type of stimulant; candy, soda, anything sweet to get that next "lift". These fluctuations can lead to adrenal exhaustion.


Fatigue, headaches, confusion, irratibility are common when the "high" wears off. Your body stays in a constant state of high and lows. Caffiene has an immediate effect on your body. If you continually drink coffee throughout the day you are stimulating your adrenals which puts your body in a constant state of stress. I have heard the term "caffeinism"(characterized by fatigue) used to describe the chronic toxicity that results from excessive caffeine consumption. This can also lead to lower back pain, sleeping disorders and anxiety. Remember that caffeine does not provide energy, only chemical stimulation. Calcium and zinc are robbed from the body as well as the B vitamins which are critical for converting food to energy. It also prevents iron absorption, which can lead to fatigue.

If you quit consuming caffeine for a few days and you feel tired, depressed, unmotivated, headaches, etc.. you are most likely addicted to it. A general cause of fatigue is caffeine withdrawl. Millions of people in America have caffeine addictions, it comes in many forms; chocolate, sodas, teas or where ever caffeine is present.

During a caffeine detoxification it is important to support your body nutritionally with diet. Reducing your intake or eliminating caffeine totally should be supported by a good adrenal support. Cutting out refined sugars and caffeine tends to aggrevate food cravings and fuel your fatigue.

Instead eat pasta, low-sugar cereals, oatmeal, whole grain breads, rice, fruits and vegetables - always organic and fresh. These foods will give you the energy you are looking for while elevating your mood a bit. You may want to apply heat to the lower back to warm the adrenals- two triangular shaped organs located on top of the kidneys.

Siberian ginseng helps to fight stress and is a tonic for the adrenals.
Borage has been used since ancient times and is excellent for reviving adrenal function. Licorice root and ashwagandha are also helpful. Nettles are another good choice. They are high in vitamins, calcium, protein and iron. Nettles strengthens the liver, lungs, kidneys and adrenals. They also support the thyroid and are rich in potassium, calcium, iron and vitamins A and C. I also suggest a good dietary supplement. We sell two gender tailored formulas. Go to http://www.detoxologie.com and look under products. Click on Support for Men or Support Women.

You can experience fatigue, irritability, headaches, and depression, but it should only last for a few days. Pay close attention to your diet and supplements. Make sure to support your body. This is key to getting back in balance. It may take the adrenals three to four months to completely return to a normal state of health.

After you rebalance your adrenals eat a healthy well balanced diet that is rich in fiber, orgainic friuts and vegetables. Consume the herbs and spices that your body needs to stay in balance. Always food first. Keep the coffee and sweets to a minimum. Enjoy them on occaision without submitting to the same habits that created the situation you're in now.

By maintaining good habits and living in moderation you can once again find the balance and harmony you are looking for. Nature provides a simple way to re-establish the balance that you strive for.

Namaste,

Ask Kelley