Kick the Caffeine!

For many, caffeine is the lifeblood that helps us rise and shine in the morning, keeps us happily buzzing along through hectic days, and enables us to stay up for those rare nights spent out on the town. But is the very stuff that many of us depend on actually harmful? Or could something that tastes so good, and makes us feel even better, actually be beneficial?

To find the answers to these questions, we went straight to an expert. Dr. James Lane has studied caffeine for the past 25 years at Duke University Medical Center. "I don't know of any groups that benefit from habitual consumption of caffeine", says Dr. Lane. "My research suggests that caffeine exaggerates the effects of stress and the body's stress responses. Stress effects are thought to be harmful to health, increasing risk and speeding the development of many chronic diseases", he says. As for those who should definitively avoid caffeine altogether, Dr. Lane says "We have found that caffeine raises blood pressure and exaggerates the increases in glucose after a meal in people who have type 2 diabetes. There are also unresolved concerns about caffeine in pregnancy, and pregnant women should avoid caffeine. People with anxiety disorders probably should avoid caffeine, which can produce symptoms of anxiety".

If you find yourself looking for alternatives to the famous jolt of energy that caffeine addicts crave, try some of the following natural options:

Ginseng. We now know what practitioners of Eastern medicine have known for thousands of years - ginseng, a natural herb, has benefits that go far beyond looking pretty in a garden. It is commonly used to increase energy, and is also known to help reduce stress, improve memory and boost the immune system. Ginseng is available in many forms, one to try (for those of you looking for something warm to fill your mug), is ginseng infused-and caffeine-free-Early Morning Riser Tea by Long Life Tea.

Exercise. Have you ever noticed that you have a little extra pep in your step after a good workout? That's because exercise can actually boost your energy levels. Don't believe the hype? Try taking a 30 minute walk every other day for one week. We guarantee you'll feel more energetic...and may just burn a couple calories while you're at it!

Remember to breathe! It may sound silly but, when done correctly, the simple act of breathing can actually invigorate you with energy. The next time you're in need of an energy boost, try this simple breathing exercise: sit in a comfortable position, with your shoulders back and spine straight. With a gently closed mouth, breathe in and out through your nose as quickly as possible for 15 seconds.

For more info on how to spend less, get more and sweeten your life keep exploring all the info, updates, deals and coupons on RedPlum!

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