Dear Valerie,
I would love to do one of your Detox Programs but am worried about giving up my daily 2 cups of coffee without getting sick. I have a busy life as a wife and mother along with my high-pressure career. I need some help – I tried giving up my caffeine “cold turkey” and experienced terrible headaches and was sick for 3 days.
Thanks, Julie
Dear Julie,
Thank you for writing in about your challenge while giving up your coffee. Yes, I have experienced withdrawal headaches from giving up coffee “cold turkey”, just like you.
You’re probably wondering why do I feel so sick? This happens because our blood vessels have become accustomed to being constricted by the coffee/caffeine we drink. When our blood vessels open up to a normal level (lacking coffee), the increased circulation is experienced as a “withdrawal headache” making us feel sick.
Let’s try a gradual process giving up the next time, like this:
Gradually reduce your coffee intake:
• Day 1 – 3/4 the amount you normally drink
• Day 2 – 1/2 the amount you normally drink
• Day 3 – 1/4 the amount you normally drink
• Keep this going until comfortable.
Coffee Substitutes that you may like to try:
• Dandy Blend Herbal Coffee: Soy-free, Vegan, Dairy-free, Low Glycemic, Gluten Free. Dandy blend is a mixture of dandelion, chicory, beets, barley, and rye. This product is gluten-free. According to their website, “gluten, which is comprised of proteins that are not water soluble, is left behind in the grounds to be composted during the extracting process.”
• Pero Instant Beverage: Its Soy-free, Vegan, Dairy Free, Low Glycemic. It has a coffee-like taste and its caffeine-free. Its made in Switzerland and blended with natural ingredients – malted barley, barley, chicory, and rye.
Let me know how my suggestions worked for you.
Your Holistic Health Coach,
