WANT TO KNOW 3 WAYS TO MINIMIZE DANDRUFF???

If you have an itchy scalp, it could be a sign of dandruff. Address the issue naturally – see what Dr. Weil suggests!

1.Dandruff - flakes of dry skin on the scalp - can be bothersome and embarrassing. Caused by eczema or seborrhea, it is often linked to climate and genetic factors, not poor grooming habits (as many people think). There are simple measures you can take to treat dandruff:

2.Use a gentle, non-drying shampoo or a tar shampoo daily or every other day until the dandruff goes away, then only twice a week.
To restore moisture to your skin and hair, supplement your diet with evening primrose oil, which provides an essential fatty acid called GLA (gamma-linolenic acid). This compound is hard to come by in the diet, and promotes the healthy growth of skin and hair. Try doses of 500 mg twice a day; after six to eight weeks, when you start to see improvement, cut the dose in half.

3.Eat freshly ground flaxseed and find a source of fish oils in the form of sardines, wild Alaskan salmon or supplement capsules. These sources of omega-3 fatty acids should help to reduce flaking.
If your dandruff is persistent, I recommend a visit to your dermatologist to be sure that the problem is not due to an underlying scalp disease other than eczema or seborrhea, or to a skin infection.

Read More

5 WAYS TO MINIMIZE COUGH AND COLD

Don’t let a cough or cold ruin your day – try these five natural suggestions to minimize their effects.

If you are looking for effective, safe herbal treatments for coughs and congestion, I recommend the following natural treatments. All can be used safely by both adults and children:

1. Echinacea: The adult dose is one teaspoon of tincture in water four times a day or two capsules of freeze-dried extract four times a day. Give children half those amounts.  

2. Garlic: The best home remedy I have found for colds is to eat one or two cloves of raw garlic at the first onset of symptoms. You can chop the garlic fine, let sit for 10 minutes to “activate” and mix it with food, or cut a clove into chunks and swallow them whole like pills.  

3. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): The flowers and fruit of this shrub have a long history of use for treating colds and flu.  

4. Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra): This remedy from the inner bark of the red elm tree is available as lozenges, powder, capsules and extracts. Use the lozenges as needed for sore throats due to colds. 

5. Zinc: In moderate doses, this mineral can enhance immunity.

Read More

WANT TO KNOW 6 FAT-FIGHTING SUPERFOODS???

Dark Chocolate

A particularly sweet study found that daily consumption of roughly one and a half ounces of dark chocolate — about the amount in a Hershey's bar — reduced the stress hormone cortisol. (Stress has been linked to a sluggish metabolism.) Researchers suspect that certain compounds in chocolate, like caffeine and theobromine, may be responsible. Another reason to indulge: A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that adults who ate moderate amounts of chocolate regularly were actually thinner than those who didn't, even though they consumed more calories and exercised the same amount.

Look for chocolate that contains at least 70 percent cocoa — the darker, the better. Pair a square with a cappuccino for a midmorning pick-me-up or stir some chunks into homemade trail mix.

Eggs

According to Bowden, eggs are the best protein source on the planet. They contain all nine essential amino acids, which your body needs to build muscle tissue. And the bigger your guns, the greater your fat-burning potential, because it takes more calories to maintain muscle than it does fat.

Start your day with two scrambled eggs instead of waffles or cereal. Or get creative and cook an egg in an avocado for a dose of healthy fats: Slice the avocado in half lengthwise, remove the pit and carve out some additional space in the center, then crack an egg into it. Bake at 425° for about 10 minutes or until set, and voil?!

Sesame Seeds

Animal studies showed that plant chemicals, called lignans, in sesame seeds enhance fat burning by increasing liver enzymes that break down fat. "Many studies found that protein and essential fatty acids increase the metabolic rate, and sesame seeds are loaded with both," explains Christine Gerbstadt, MD, RD, a spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. They're also a rich source of minerals and fiber.

Roast sesame seeds (spread evenly on a baking sheet and put in an oven set to 325° for about 15 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant), then sprinkle them on salads, stir-fried vegetables, chicken, fish, and soups. Spread tahini (sesame paste) on celery or bread and opt for sesame seed buns and bagels over plain.

Smoothies

Sipping a smoothie can stoke your fat-burning fires, as long as it contains whey protein powder. New research suggests that this substance triggers satiety hormones, including cholecystokinin, which sends your brain a "Hey, I'm full" signal. Plus, whey, a protein found in milk, contains the muscle-building amino acid leucine. "When you're losing weight, eating whey protein can help reduce the loss of lean muscle mass, which keeps your metabolism revved," Dr. Gerbstadt says.

Whey protein powder isn't just for smoothies. Mix it into yogurt and pudding or add it to the dry ingredients when you're baking muffins or cookies.

Yellow Bell Peppers

It's time to "pep" up your diet. About one-third of Americans are vitamin C deficient, and one yellow pepper supplies 341 milligrams, nearly three and a half times the amount in a large orange. "The body needs vitamin C to produce a molecule called carnitine, which helps muscles use fat for energy and, in turn, boosts metabolism," says Carol Johnston, PhD, RD, the associate director of the School of Nutrition and Health Promotion at Arizona State University. Sure enough, people with higher levels of C in their blood had lower BMIs and less body fat, according to a study in the Journal of Nutrition.

Raw yellow pepper strips make a satisfying snack with a little hummus, and they add crunch to fish tacos. Or core and clean a pepper and fill it with tuna salad (use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of mayo) for lunch.

Peanuts

These fiber-packed nuts don't just help curb your intake of calories, they can help torch them too. "Peanuts induce a strong thermic response, which means that the process of digesting them actually burns calories," Johnston says. A study in the International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders found that when people consumed 500 calories' worth of peanuts daily for 19 weeks, their resting metabolic rate increased by 11 percent, even without added exercise.

Don't go overboard, as peanuts are calorie-dense. Keep a stash in your purse for a quick snack (aim for one ounce, or about two tablespoons, daily), revisit your childhood with an afternoon PB&J, or make pad thai with ground peanuts for a delish fat-burning dinner.

The Drink That Helps You Shrink

Want to lose an extra 6.6 pounds a year? Down two glasses of water before breakfast (you can try it before any meal). People who did this in a recent study at Virginia Tech consumed an average of 75 fewer calories at their a.m. meal than those who didn't. "The water acted as a calorie-free appetizer," says study author Brenda M. Davy, PhD, RD. "It filled participants' stomachs, so they reported less hunger just prior to eating." Other research suggests that H2O boosts metabolism, because your body has to work to raise the temperature of the ingested water to match that of your core. In one study, people who drank eight to 12 glasses a day had higher metabolic rates than those who sipped just four.

Read More

WANT TO KNOW HEALTHY LUNCHES?????

                      

When shopping for the upcoming week, add ingredients for these healthy lunch suggestions to your list. All are convenient, cost-effective meal ideas!

Want a noon meal that will cost less, taste better and provide more nutrition than most dining-out options? Try the following - each is easy to make and will fill you up without emptying your wallet. (For the chili and soup options, invest in a wide-mouth vacuum container, preferably lined with stainless steel.)

Vegetarian chili - beans and fresh vegetables provide protein and fiber. Top with natural cheese for an extra serving of calcium.
Salmon salad and whole grain crackers - canned salmon is a cost-effective way to get omega-3 fatty acids into your diet: simply mix wild-caught salmon with some lemon juice, pepper and fresh herbs and spread on fiber-rich crackers.
Hummus and vegetables - easy to pack, and the chickpeas in the hummus provide protein and fiber, while the vegetables offer up antioxidants. Bring a variety of organic, colorful vegetables for interesting taste and texture.
Miso soup and edamame - miso is full of isoflavones, antioxidants and protective fatty acids, and edamame contains isoflavones that have antioxidant activity and may help lower cancer risk.
Barley salad - barley is a satisfying, nutty, low-glycemic-load grain. Start with barley and add whatever you prefer - grilled vegetables, tofu, beans - for a customized salad that can be eaten warm or cold.
Lentil soup - a good source of fiber and magnesium, lentils cook quickly and are filling and satisfying year-round. Get the recipe here.

Read More

7 USES OF ALOE VERA THAT WILL HELP YOU...

1. Aloe Vera Contains Bioactive Compounds That Can Improve Health

Aloe vera is a thick, short-stemmed plant that stores water in its leaves.

It is widely used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries, and has an estimated annual market value of $13 billion globally.

Aloe vera is well recognized by its thick, pointed and fleshy green leaves, which can grow to about 12-19 inches (30-50 cm) in length.

This is what the Aloe vera plant looks like:

2. Aloe Vera Has Potent Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties

Antioxidants are important for health.

Aloe vera gel contains powerful antioxidants, which belong to a large family of substances known as polyphenols.

These polyphenols, along with several other compounds in Aloe vera, can help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria that can cause infections in humans
                

3. Aloe Vera Accelerates The Healing of Burns

Single Aloe Vera Plant
Aloe vera is most commonly used as a topical medication, rubbed onto the skin rather than eaten.
                           

4. Aloe Vera May Improve Skin Elasticity and Help Prevent Wrinkles

There is some preliminary evidence that topical Aloe vera gel can slow aging of the skin.

Woman Holding an Aloe Vera Plant

In one study of 30 women over the age of 45, topical application of the gel was shown to increase collagen production and improve skin elasticity over a 90-day period.

Another study found that Aloe vera reduced erythema (redness of the skin), but was also found to dehydrate skin cells.

There is very little evidence that Aloe vera can treat skin conditions like psoriasis and radiation dermatitis.
                                           

                          

5. Aloe Vera May Lower Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetics

Fresh Aloe Vera Leaves With Water Drops
Aloe vera has sometimes been used as a traditional diabetes remedy.

It is said to enhance insulin sensitivity and help improve blood sugar management.

Several animal and human studies in type 2 diabetics have actually found promising results from consuming Aloe vera extract.

However, the quality of these studies was fairly poor, so it is definitely premature to recommend Aloe vera for this purpose.

Additionally, there have been some cases of liver damage reported with long-term ingestion of Aloe vera supplements.
It has long been known as a treatment for sores, particularly burns, including sunburns.

In fact, the FDA first approved Aloe vera ointment as an over-the-counter medication for skin burns back in 1959.

Studies suggest that it is an effective topical treatment for first- and second-degree burns.

The evidence for Aloe vera helping to heal other types of wounds is inconclusive.

                                                                 

6. Pure Aloe Vera Juice Reduces Dental Plaque as Effectively as Mouthwash

Green Aloe Vera Gel
Tooth decay and diseases of the gum are very common health problems.

One of the best ways to prevent this from happening is to reduce the buildup of plaque (bacterial biofilms) on the teeth.

In a mouth rinse study of 300 healthy people, 100% pure Aloe vera juice was compared to the standard mouthwash ingredient chlorhexidine.

After 4 days of use, the Aloe vera mouth rinse was found to be just as effective as chlorhexidine in reducing dental plaque.

Another study found similar benefits of Aloe vera mouth rinse when used over a 15- to 30-day period.

Aloe vera does this by killing the plaque-producing bacterium Streptococcus mutans in the mouth, as well as the yeast Candida albicans.
                                        

7. Aloe Vera Can be Used to Treat Mouth Ulcers 

(Canker Sores)

Brunette Holding an Aloe Vera Leaf

Many people have experienced mouth ulcers, or canker sores, at some point in their lives.

They usually form underneath the lip, inside the mouth, and last for about 7-10 days.

Studies have convincingly shown that Aloe vera treatment can accelerate the healing of mouth ulcers.

In a 7-day study of 180 people with recurrent mouth ulcers, an Aloe vera patch applied to the area was effective in reducing the size of the ulcers.

However, it did not outperform the conventional ulcer treatment, which is corticosteroids.

In another study, Aloe vera gel not only accelerated the healing of mouth ulcers, it also reduced the pain associated with them.


                                    

Read More

6 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SUNSCREEN

1.Protecting yourself from the sun is vital to minimizing the risk of melanoma, as well as premature skin aging. Use these guidelines for buying and applying sunscreen.

2.If you want protection from the sun, avoid its rays (particularly between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. standard time from April through September in the Northern Hemisphere); wear a wide-brim hat and sunglasses (make sure your sunglasses block at least 99 percent of UVA and UVB radiation); and use sunscreen. When it comes to the latter, consider these six guidelines for getting the most out of your sunscreen: 

3.Choose sunscreens that offer "broad spectrum" protection - that means it will block UVB rays and some UVA. Look for zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and Parsol 1789 among the ingredients, but do not use "micronized" or "nano" formulations.

4.Buy sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15. This will block about 93 percent of UVB rays. Higher SPF numbers won't necessarily give you that much greater protection, but tend to remain effective longer.
Use it liberally. You need at least an ounce (the amount that would fill a shot glass) to cover your entire body.

5.Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors so that it can be absorbed into the skin.

6.Be sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours and after every swim. No matter what the label says, one application of sunscreen won't last you all day and won't stay on if you're in and out of the water.
Remember that solar exposure is the best way to maintain optimum vitamin D levels, so don't entirely avoid sunlight on your bare skin. Learn how to safely raise your "D" levels via prudent sun exposure.

Read More

WANT TO KNOW TOP 4 USES OF GREEN TEA???

1. Green Tea Contains Various Bioactive Compounds That Can Improve Health

 Green tea is more than just green liquid.

Many of the bioactive compounds in the tea leaves do make it into the final drink, which contains large amounts of important nutrients.

It is loaded with polyphenols like flavonoids and catechins, which function as powerful antioxidants.

These substances can reduce the formation of free radicals in the body, protecting cells and molecules from damage. These free radicals are known to play a role in aging and all sorts of diseases.

One of the more powerful compounds in green tea is the antioxidant Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), which has been studied to treat various diseases and may be one of the main reasons green tea has such powerful medicinal properties.

Green tea also has small amounts of minerals that are important for health.

Try to choose a higher quality brand of green tea, because some of the lower quality brands can contain excessive levels of fluoride.

That being said, even if you choose a lower quality brand, the benefits still far outweigh any risk.

2. Compounds in Green Tea Can Improve Brain Function and Make You Smarter

Green tea does more than just keep you awake, it can also make you smarter.

The key active ingredient is caffeine, which is a known stimulant.

It doesn’t contain as much as coffee, but enough to produce a response without causing the “jittery” effects associated with too much caffeine.

What caffeine does in the brain is to block an inhibitory neurotransmitter called Adenosine. This way, it actually increases the firing of neurons and the concentration of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine .

Caffeine has been intensively studied before and consistently leads to improvements in various aspects of brain function, including improved mood, vigilance, reaction time and memory.

However… green tea contains more than just caffeine. It also has the amino acid L-theanine, which is able to cross the blood-brain barrier.

L-theanine increases the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which has anti-anxiety effects. It also increases dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain.

Studies show that caffeine and L-theanine can have synergistic effects. The combination of the two is particularly potent at improving brain function.

Because of the L-theanine and the smaller dose of caffeine, green tea can give you a much milder and different kind of “buzz” than coffee.

Many people report having more stable energy and being much more productive when they drink green tea, compared to coffee.

3. Green Tea Increases Fat Burning and Improves Physical Performance

If you look at the ingredients list for any fat burning supplement, chances are that green tea,will be on there.

This is because green tea has been shown to increase fat burning and boost the metabolic rate, in human controlled trials .

In one study in 10 healthy men, green tea increased energy expenditure by 4%.

Another study showed that fat oxidation was increased by 17%, indicating that green tea may selectively increase the burning of fat.

However, I’d like to point out that some studies on green tea don’t show any increase in metabolism, so the effects may depend on the individual.

Caffeine itself has also been shown to improve physical performance by mobilizing fatty acids from the fat tissues and making them available for use as energy .

In two separate review studies, caffeine has been shown to increase physical performance by 11-12%, on average.

4. Antioxidants in Green Tea May Lower Your Risk of Various Types of Cancer

Cancer is caused by uncontrolled growth of cells. It is one of the world’s leading causes of

death.

It is well known that oxidative damage contributes to the development of cancer and that antioxidants can have a protective effect .

Green tea is an excellent source of powerful antioxidants, so it makes perfect sense that it could reduce your risk of cancer, which it appears to do:

• Breast cancer: A meta-analysis of observational studies found that whomen who drank the most green tea had a 22% lower risk of developing breast cancer, the most common cancer in women .
• Prostate cancer: One study found that men drinking green tea had a 48% lower risk of developing prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer in men.
• Colorectal cancer: A study of 69,710 Chinese women found that green tea drinkers had a 57% lower risk of colorectal cancer.

Read More

Do You Know 5 Effects Of Junk Food On Your Body???

1.It may cause diabetes: One of major contributing factors for the emerging diabetes epidemic is unhealthy diet full of junk and fast food. When you eat a healthy diet, your body gets a steady supply of glucose, which helps maintain insulin sensitivity. On the other hand, when you eat only junk food, the excessive stress exerted on your metabolism affects the ability of your body to use insulin properly. Since junk food lacks fibre content, its consumption directly results in a spike in sugar levels. Further, junk food consumption leads to obesity, one of the main reasons for insulin resistance and development of diabetes.

2. fluctuations in blood sugar levels: Junk food is high in refined sugar which exerts stress on your metabolism. Refined sugar causes the pancreas to secrete more amount of insulin in order to prevent a drastic spike in your blood sugar levels. Because junk food lacks sufficient levels of good carbohydrates and proteins, the levels of blood sugar drop suddenly after you eat. This makes you feel irritable and further increases you craving for more junk food

3. It affects the brain function: A study published in the journalBrain, Behavior, and Immunity shows that one week of eating junk food is enough to trigger memory impairment in rats. Recent research suggests that bad fats (trans fats) from junk food tends to replace healthy fats in the brain and interferes with its normal signalling mechanism. Studies in animals have also shown that fats from junk food slow down the ability to learn new skills.

4.kidney disease: The reason why you can never say no to fries and chips is because they contain high amount of finely processed salt which increases salivation and secretion of enzymes that enhance your cravings for these foods. High amount of bad fats and sodium from salt disrupts the sodium-potassium balance of the body and causes hypertension. Since the kidney have to filter all the toxins from the blood, eating a lot of junk food has a direct effect on the kidney functioning.

5.It can damage your liver: Surprisingly, junk food consumption over a period of time can have similar harmful effect on the liver as alcohol consumptions does. A study reported that people who ate junk food and shunned exercise showed changes in liver enzymes within four weeks. These changes were similar to those observed in people with alcohol abuse. According to some studies, it’s the high level of trans fats found in a number of junk food which cause liver dysfunction due to deposition in the liver.

.

Read More

TOP 4 RELAXATION TECHNIQUES THAT WILL GIVE YOU RELIEF

Relaxation technique 1: Breathing meditation for stress relief

With its focus on full, cleansing breaths, deep breathing is a simple yet powerful relaxation technique. It’s easy to learn, can be practiced almost anywhere, and provides a quick way to get your stress levels in check. Deep breathing is the cornerstone of many other relaxation practices, too, and can be combined with other relaxing elements such as aromatherapy and music. All you really need is a few minutes and a place to stretch out.

                                               

Relaxation technique 2: Progressive muscle relaxation for stress relief

Progressive muscle relaxation involves a two-step process in which you systematically tense and relax different muscle groups in the body.

With regular practice, progressive muscle relaxation gives you an intimate familiarity with what tension—as well as complete relaxation—feels like in different parts of the body. This awareness helps you spot and counteract the first signs of the muscular tension that accompanies stress. And as your body relaxes, so will your mind. You can combine deep breathing with progressive muscle relaxation for an additional level of stress relief.

                           

Relaxation technique 3: Yoga and tai chi for stress relief

Yoga involves a series of both moving and stationary poses, combined with deep breathing. As well as reducing anxiety and stress, yoga can also improve flexibility, strength, balance, and stamina. Practiced regularly, it can also strengthen the relaxation response in your daily life. Since injuries can happen when yoga is practiced incorrectly, it’s best to learn by attending group classes, hiring a private teacher, or at least following video instructions.

Tai Chi

If you’ve ever seen a group of people in the park slowly moving in synch, you’ve probably witnessed tai chi. Tai chi is a self-paced, non-competitive series of slow, flowing body movements. These movements emphasize concentration, relaxation, and the conscious circulation of vital energy throughout the body. Though tai chi has its roots in martial arts, today it is primarily practiced as a way of calming the mind, conditioning the body, and reducing stress. As in meditation, tai chi practitioners focus on their breathing and keeping their attention in the present moment.

Tai chi is a safe, low-impact option for people of all ages and fitness levels, including older adults and those recovering from injuries. Like yoga, once you’ve learned the basics of tai chi or qi gong, you can practice alone or with others, tailoring your sessions as you see fit.

Relaxation technique 4: Massage therapy for stress relief

You’re probably already aware how much a professional massage at a spa or health club can help reduce stress, relieve pain, and ease muscle tension. What you may not be aware of is that you can experience many of the same benefits at home or work by practicing self-massage—or trading massages with a loved one.

Try taking a few minutes to massage yourself at your desk between tasks, on the couch at the end of a hectic day, or in bed to help you unwind before sleep. To enhance relaxation, you can use aromatic oil, scented lotion, or combine self-message with mindfulness or deep breathing techniques.

Read More

TOP 7 NATURAL VEGETARIAN FOODS WITH HIGH PROTEINS

 VEGETARIAN FOODS

     1)     Almonds

             Quantity per serving: 30g  or 22  almonds  

             Protein content:6g
             Calories:171cal
             Protein per 100 calories:4.7  

                                               

          

            

      2)      Baked Beans

               Quantity per serving: 200g  or 70z
               Protein content:12g
               Calories:179cal
               Protein per 100 calories:6.7  

              

    3)       Cottage Cheese

              Quantity per serving: 1 cup  or 22 almonds
              Protein content:26g
              Calories:163cal
              Protein per 100 calories:14.2

          

    4)        Oats

               Quantity per serving: 30g  or 1 oz

               Protein content:5g

               Calories:109cal

               Protein per 100 calories:4.5

         

  5)        Soy Milk

             Quantity per serving: 1 cup  

             Protein content:4g

             Calories:194cal

             Protein per 100 calories:2.1

           

             

   

  

  6)       Yogurt

            Quantity per serving: 150g  or 5oz  

            Protein content:12g
            Calories:137cal
            Protein per 100 calories:8.7

          
       

        

    

  7)       Peanut Butter

            Quantity per serving: 2 tablespoon or 30g

            Protein content:8g
            Calories:190cal
            Protein per 100 calories:4.1
         
         

          

Read More

DO YOU KNOW THE ACTUAL USE OF LAVENDER OIL??

1. Calming

Rub 2-3 drops of lavender oil in your cupped palms, then use the inhalation method to draw the scent all the way into your amygdala gland (the emotional warehouse) in your brain to calm the mind. Then, rub on the feet, temples, wrists (or anywhere) for an immediate calming effect on the body. Great for use in crowded areas like planes or subways to carve out your own personal oasis.

2. Sleep aid

Again, use the cupping and Inhalation method. Then, rub a drop of Lavender oil on your palms and smooth on your pillow to help you sleep.

3. Bee sting / Insect bite

Put a drop of Lavender oil on a bee sting or insect bite to stop itching reduce swelling.

4. Minor burn

Put 2-3 drops Lavender oil on a minor burn to decrease pain. I recently did this after I spilled scorching hot tea on my hand at Starbucks and luckily had my lavender with me. Result: NO redness, swelling or pain. NO sign of any burn. Lavender works wonders!

5. Cuts

Drop Lavender oil on cut to stop bleeding, clean wound, and kill bacteria.

6. Eczema / Dermatitis

Mix several drops of Lavender oil with a nut or vegetable mixing oil (coconut, sesame, etc) and use topically on eczema and dermatitis. I have a dear friend who suffers from severe eczema and swears by this.

Read More

WANT TO CLEAN UP YOUR DIET?

If you want to start eating and drinking foods and beverages that make you feel good inside and out, start by eliminating drinks that contain this drug from your diet.

Caffeine is an addictive drug that four out of five American adults use every day, whether it be in coffee, soft drinks, tea or another form. If you feel you may be addicted to caffeine and wish to give it up, try the following:

Start by choosing a period of time when you have relatively few obligations, such as a long weekend.
Commit to trying three caffeine-free days, and see how you feel afterwards.
Prepare to experience tiredness, irritability and a very bad headache, especially after avoiding caffeine for 24 hours. Diminish the discomfort by keeping yourself busy: take walks, spend time in the garden, or do other light, soothing activities.
Avoid anything that may aggravate a headache, such as prolonged TV watching or reading in low light. These side effects will eventually diminish - and are worth it in the long run.
Or, consider weaning yourself off caffeine by gradually reducing your intake. Substitute green tea or decaffeinated coffee for caffeinated coffee, and drink water or fruit juice mixed with sparkling water in lieu of cola. Breathing exercises, physical exercise and a diet that incorporates plenty of fruits and vegetables may also help reduce the severity of side effects.

Read More