Break the Caffeine Crave
A new school year means the pile of tests, projects and papers are just around the corner. Late night study sessions loom in the future and the only way to survive it all is caffeine.
It’s easy to rely on caffeine for a quick pick-me-up because it’s easy, available, cheap, quick, seems effective and honestly, it’s the trendy thing to do. Energy Drinks, Soda, Coffee, Chocolate, Tea all provide a boost of energy, but do these products really give you the results you need and want? No. in fact, your caffeine consumption may be harming you more than helping. Before the stress of the upcoming school year hits, we’ll give you the ingredients to gain energy and brainpower without falling into the caffeine-guzzling trap.
Keep a regular exercise regimen.
Intense exercise boosts energy. When you’re overwhelmed, squeeze in a jog, a speedy bike ride or a brisk walk.Studies show that exercise pumps more oxygen into the bloodstream. Oxygen is a natural fuel for your brain and muscles, giving you the power to get stuff done. Build your lung capacity by exercising regularly so you can increase the amount of oxygen to your brain! Exercise also releases endorphins which is the body’s natural feel-good chemical. When you feel happy, you feel more energized and able to tackle life’s to-dos.
Eat a variety of nutritious foods.
Humans need more than 40 different vitamins and minerals to keep our bodies functioning optimally. Vitamins and minerals are safer and more effective than artificial stimulants. Utilize the natural resources of God’s world rather than unnatural stimulants to make it through a busy day.Since there isn’t a single food that contains everything your body needs, it’s important to eat a variety of foods. Include as many different vegetables and fruits as possible into your diet.
Drink plenty of water.
Water is a natural energy drink. Even mild dehydration can leave you feeling listless. Make a habit of drinking plenty of water, especially when you’re active. Instead of grabbing an energy drink or cash for the vending machine, grab a cute water bottle that you can fill up at the drinking fountain throughout the day. A quick, light pinch of the skin on your hand or arm is an easy check to determine if you may be dehydrated. If your skin is slow to resume a smooth appearance, then you’re in need of some hydration.
Avoid energy drinks.
The term “energy” drink is an unfortunate misnomer. Energy drinks don’t give your body energy; they stimulate you with brief jolts of caffeine and unregulated herbal stimulants. The side effects can include anxiety, hypertension, elevated heart rates, heart palpitations, interrupted sleep patterns and headaches. According to a recent University of Miami study, these problems are more pronounced in younger individuals.
As you well know, caffeine is an addictive substance. Whatever habits you start now, will only increase over time. Rather than reaching for more caffeine to make it through the school year, reach for some healthy alternatives.
Relying on caffeine can be evidence of a lack of faith. Don’t let a substance be a crutch. Rely on God to walk you through the year. The greatest piece of advice on overcoming caffeine addictions and cravings is to pray. We’re praying for you, and would love to know about specific projects, tests and burdens you bear, so shoot us an email, message us on your favorite social media platform or #niNeprayerquest.
