Some people who are new to recovery feel that they should rid their bodies of all mind altering chemicals, which includes caffeine. Caffeine is actually a stimulant. Caffeine is well known to temporarily increase your energy, allowing you to feel alert and focused. As with all drugs, once the initial effects wear off, you experience a crash once the energy subsides.

There is a difference between moderation and caffeine addiction. There are legitimately people who are addicted to caffeine. There was a story in the news in recent years of a woman who passed away after many years of consuming over 50 caffeinated beverages a day. This is an example of caffeine addiction. Caffeine can even cause withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawals include:

• Sleepiness
• Feeling lethargic
• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Muscle stiffness or pain
• Digestion issues – constipation or diarrhea

To answer the question, using caffeine does not mean that you are not in recovery. However, for health reasons you may want to consider limiting your daily intake of caffeine. If you start feeling that you can’t make it through the day without caffeine, or you begin experiencing withdrawal symptoms, this may be your body’s way of telling you that you have developed an addiction.

Caffeine dependence is different than addiction to drugs and alcohol. Caffeine most likely will not cause financial, family, or interpersonal problems. The story about the woman who consumed hundreds of beverages a week is rare. However, if you start to feel that you caffeine is affecting how you feel and your health, you may want to consider cutting back or quitting altogether.

Using caffeine does not jeopardize your recovery. Caffeine is not a triggering substance that increases your chances of relapse. The use of caffeine is often used for socializing, at 12-step meetings, and can actually be quite enjoyable. You know your body the best.

Caffeine is mostly found in coffee and teas. Caffeine provides a little jolt of energy. Going to a coffee shop with a friend can be an enjoyable experience. So no, caffeine consumption does not mean that you are not committed to your recovery.

At The Kimberly Center, we care about your physical and emotional health. If you have questions about recovery and your ability to consume natural substances like caffeine, give us a call today. Call us now at 855-4-KCENTER. We are committed to putting you and your recovery first. At the Kimberly Center, you are in safe hands.