Did you know that not only is caffeine addictive, but also can increase your risk of insomnia, stroke and heart disease? Those two or three small cups of daily coffee are doing some damage (even though it’s hazelnut-flavored and unsweetened).

The expensive Columbian beans you invested in were probably exposed to pesticides that contribute to cancer. Research shows that coffee can combine toxic substances in your body and make you at risk of fluid loss, high cholesterol and contribute to diabetes. And we won’t even get started on energy drinks.

Beyond basic health concerns, caffeine affects your mood and your memory. When you couldn’t remember how to adjust your keyboard tray, or worse, you forgot that important meeting, caffeine could have been the culprit. Caffeine also causes mood swings. You may feel giddy and focused after finishing that third soda, but get ready to crash when you realize you’ve cleaned your entire office instead of written that report.

Yes, we know you still want to watch your cup stand still when you adjust your standing desk, but choose a healthier alternative. The feeling of caffeine is fleeting, causing people to consume more and more, but you’ll be surprised at how much more energy you’ll have once caffeine is completely eliminated from your body.

Eliminating caffeine from your diet is tough, and could cause nervousness, headaches and fatigue, so gradually cutting back is the key.

Here are a few healthier options to help you start:

Water, for one, is the substance our body craves and needs the most. Feel a headache coming on from caffeine withdrawal? Grab a bottle of water and start drinking. Better yet, grab two or three bottles. Studies show men need three liters a day while women need 2.2 liters – that’s nine to 12 cups a day.

Dehydration is the main cause of headaches, and drinking water will keep you hydrated and keep caffeine withdrawal symptoms at bay (you’ll also save on pain medication).

If you really need a fix of your favorite roasted pecan blend or ice-cold caffeinated soda, try the decaf version. It may not be as exciting since you aren’t getting the same effect, but it will taste great and can trick your body into that caffeine happy place.

Herbal tea is delicious and most don’t contain caffeine. There are numerous benefits of drinking herbal tea. Ginger tea aides nausea or an upset stomach, and rosehip tea is a great source of vitamin C. There are even types of herbal teas that will increase your energy – something we all need during a long day at the office.

Check out these herbal tea energy boost options HERE.

And as always, when you’re feeling sluggish from the lack of caffeine, put your desk in gear and stand up! Standing increases blood flow to get your mind and body working, and it will get you out of a rut.

Challenge yourself and drink less caffeine this week. And let us know how it works!

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