Today.
October 15th, 2008.
Began an experiment I never imagined would happen in the gracefullypunk world.
For today I began the process of weaning myself off caffeine.
Recently the pain has returned, sharp pains in my lower right abdomen as well as searing pains throughout the midsection. At first I buried my head--all treatments are not over, so perhaps I just need to wait another month? But then I started researching, and discovered that hormonal treatments do not work on all endometriosis sufferers.
At first I freaked out, as I fit all characteristics of someone who should be considering a hysterectomy. Turns out that I don't want to travel this route just yet. So I started researching what might be causing the pain to increase. And the first factor I landed upon was caffeine.
Over the past month or so, my tea consumption--particularly black tea, but also green--has increased by at least one and often 2-3 cups per day. Such is a by-product of dating an Englishman I suppose...even if he's not right here the constant references to tea implanted themselves in my brain and got me hooked. Can I say definitely that this is what has increased my pain? Of course not. But it's worth a shot.
So today I cut back from 2.5 cups of coffee to 1.25. Tomorrow it will be just a cup (but made with less beans) as will Friday. Saturday will be caffeineless. And no midday jolts, either.
I suppose I should be glad that I'm doing this. After all, I know I am dependent. I'm foggy right now, and cranky, and wondering where my bed is. I didn't realize how reliant upon caffeine I am until today. But at the same time, coffee is a part of my lifestyle. I love its tastes, I love its complexities, I love the people who grow it. I'm seriously considering building my masters work upon coffee. How can I give it up?
But it's two weeks. And Graham is doing it with me (I guess it's good we're not in the same place or he might run in fear at the realities of Kirsten without caffeine). I can survive two weeks. And if it makes a difference, I will re-introduce caffeine, as studies have said that two cups is ok. Still, this is going to be a long two weeks.
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Now playing: Cobra Starship - Guilty Pleasure
via FoxyTunes
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Now playing: Cobra Starship - Guilty Pleasure
via FoxyTunes
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2 comments:
I shall drink extra coffee in honour of you.
This makes more sense. I thought you were just *poof* giving it up. I highly recommend drinking a lot of herbal tea. Just having a hot drink in a mug can help so much. And a nice strong mint tea can help make ya more alert too. Good luck and I hope this helps ya!
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