Many fibromyalgia sufferers are tempted to drink a lot of coffee for that much needed energy boost to get through the day. But do note that coffee contains the stimulant caffeine as do tea, cola, and chocolate. And, for the moment you may receive that much needed energy boost to get dressed in the morning. But the stimulant effects wear off and your energy level begins to plummet only hours after receiving your first sip. Furthermore, excess caffeine can make you jittery and anxious. It can also affect your ability to fall and stay asleep at night. Caffeine is also addictive and your body craves it each day to function.
Many Americans consume caffeine-containing products on a daily basis. Caffeine is digested, enters the bloodstream and stimulates the central nervous system. Specifically, caffeine can increase energy and alertness. However, excessive caffeine intake is known to cause anxiety, insomnia, muscle tremors, depression and difficulty sleeping. In addition, caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches, drowsiness, irritability, nausea and vomiting. Caffeine is not stored in the body and is excreted in the urine a few hours after consumption, states Medline Plus, of the National Institutes of Health.
Anything that stimulates the central nervous system is not a productive dietary aid if you suffer from fibromyalgia. If you seek to cut caffeine from your diet, do so gradually to avoid withdraw symptoms. Then plenty your diet with herbal teas and lots of fresh water.