Q:
I have recently become addicted to caffeine, in the form of coffee. I seem to be addicted in many ways, not only do I get headaches if I don't have it, but I think I've trained my bowels to rely on coffee. Sometimes I can't go unless I drink coffee. Is that really bad?
A:
It isn't ever a good thing to be physically or psychologically dependent on anything, as the consequences of going without it can be simply annoying, or potentially life threatening. In the case of caffeine, there is definite vascular effects that happen with caffeine withdrawl which can trigger migraine-like headaches which are often more than just annoying. It does act as a stimulant to the gut too, which has a laxative effect.
Cut back your caffeine slowly and you'll be able to wean yourself off with a minimum of trouble. Do 25% decaf and 75% caffeinated for several days, then cut back to 50/50, then 75/25 and then decaf only. Occasional caffeine is not a problem, but a regular exposure will put you right back where you are now.
For constipation, treat preventively with lots of dietary fiber, fluids and psyllium powder (Metamucil) as a stool softener.
~The Doc
