Let it be written, let it be known, thread to hold me accountable.
The extended honeymoon since my early 20s has come to an end. Made a list of all the negatives which I will share here. Doing this thread to check back in and try to hold myself accountable, and for anyone wanting to chime in. I'd like to completely never drink coffee ever again, or at the very least only have it before workouts...but I know that will be a slippery slope. I turn 50 this year, and have been leaning on (and enjoying) coffee/cold brew since my early 20s. Everyday. There are now more minuses than plusses, so I need to be done.
My list of the negatives:
- The amount of money spent over 25 years, especially with starbucks/peets cold brews. Nothing to show for the money spent. Also, whole beans, gear, accessories, etc.
- Chronic dehydration. Yes, there is water in coffee, so not as bad as a caffeine pill, but it adds up over time.
- Bladder irritant, chronic diuresis. Having to pee 25 times before noon is ridiculous. Urinary urgency. Also, likely contributes to waking up to pee at night.
- Chronic poor sleep. Obviously.
- CNS burnout, hypertonic sympathetic nervous system response contributing to not recovering from exercise. Elevated heart rate and blood pressure.
- Irritability. Jumpy and short tempered. Short with people. Too edgy.
- Time spent on "coffee". Driving to and from cafes. Making toddy cold brew at home takes time. Brewing a pour over takes time.
- Being addicted sucks. Needing it. Being scared you won't be able to function at your usual without it. Can't just get going, HAVE to have coffee first.
I'm actually looking forward to getting great sleep, saving money and time, and not having my nerves jacked up all the time.
I plan on taking l-tyrosine on an empty stomach in the morning, along with either cold showers or ice water face wash to boost dopamine as a substitute.