By: MOTH

Decaf or Not to Decaf, That is the Question!

As much as 90% of Americans use caffeine daily, from coffee, soda, energy drinks, or tablets. If you are not currently storing your caffeine of choice, you may want to consider doing so.

People in panic situations will more often go to the product that they are most familiar with, and this will most likely be their favorite brand of soda, instead of the safer and healthier choice of water. Under stress, we have a tendency to go to that which is most comforting and convenient, as opposed to thinking in long term.

It is important to note that caffeinated products come under the category of TECHNOLOGY. Caffeine is brought to us by way of manufacturing.  Coffee beans are imported to the U.S. from other countries. So if you are a Starbucks addict, and zombie hordes are on the near horizon, you may want to rethink your plan of attack. If you do not have a caffeine source tucked away in your bug out bag, consider this a reminder to do so as soon as possible.

From Wikipedia-Caffeine withdrawal:

Withdrawal symptoms — possibly including headache, irritability, an inability to concentrate, drowsiness, insomnia and pain in the stomach, upper body, and joint may appear within 12 to 24 hours after discontinuation of caffeine intake, peak at roughly 48 hours, and usually last from one to five days, representing the time required for the number of adenosine receptors in the brain to revert to “normal” levels, uninfluenced by caffeine consumption. Analgesics, such as aspirin, may relieve the pain symptoms, as may a small dose of caffeine.

Now may be a good time to rethink your use of caffeine. You may want to consider cutting your intake or switching to decaf/no caffeine products entirely.  Weaning yourself slowly is recommended to avoid discomfort. If you are under stress, the last thing you will want is a blinding headache, adding to your aggravation and inhibiting your ability to think clearly. Plan ahead and be prepared, so you can be as stress free as possible.