According to one study, more than 78 percent of college freshmen consume above the recommended amount of caffeine per day, or more than 400 milligrams (mg). That's roughly the amount of caffeine in four cups of brewed coffee, 10 cans of cola or two "energy shot" drinks, though caffeine content can vary widely in these beverages.
Sure, caffeine can give you the boost you need to stay awake in class and finish your work, but it certainly won’t boost your grades. One study even showed that students who drink a cup of coffee or more have lower grade point averages than those who don't. And as students drink more daily cups of coffee, the lower their GPA becomes.
It’s very easy to become too reliant on caffeinated drinks. This is partly because just cutting out 100 milligrams per day (five to eight ounces of coffee, two cans of soda, or two or three cups of tea) can cause withdrawal symptoms that are bad for your health and sobriety, including:
- Jitters
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Disrupted heart rhythm
- Depression
What’s more, it can become a slippery slope when you begin turning to caffeine in lieu of practicing healthy habits — such as establishing good sleeping routines and practicing time management. Here are some easy ways to stay alert without the buzz of caffeine.
- Take a nap. As long as it's about six or seven hours prior to bedtime and not for too long (no longer than 25 minutes), napping is a great way to recharge.
- Eat a small snack. Low blood sugar is another energy suck. A small mini meal with a combo of healthy fat and protein can help keep blood sugar stable and energy levels high. Some ideas: avocado toast, peanut or nut butter and celery or carrots and hummus.
- Drink water. Dehydration is a major culprit of fatigue. Water will recharge your mind, body and metabolism.
- Step outside: If you feel yourself dragging during the day, get up and soak up some sunshine. Exposure to the sun will make you feel instantly energized.
Healthy Possibilities
When you choose Hope Academy's rehab, you open the possibility for a whole new life. And, perhaps the best part, you don’t have to leave college behind or put career preparation on hold. We offer vocational training, college prep, and sobriety college options that allow you to pursue your dreams while you get clean. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.
When you choose Hope Academy's rehab, you open the possibility for a whole new life. And, perhaps the best part, you don’t have to leave college behind or put career preparation on hold. We offer vocational training, college prep, and sobriety college options that allow you to pursue your dreams while you get clean. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.
