I Accidentally Quit Coffee | Caffeine-free never going back | How to quit caffeine go caffeine free

Getting better sleep, and have less anxiety is just the beginning. I never thought I'd make a video about quitting coffee; in fact, I was excited to share the French Press routine that I've been doing for what feels like 10 years. I reference a James Hoffman video that's only six years old, but it felt like 10 ;)
In this video, I tell you how I accidentally quit coffee, and it's been a real game-changer regarding how I feel and my energy levels. I read Caffeinated by Murrey Carpenter, Caffeine by Michael Pollan, Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker, and Caffeine Blues by Dr. Stephen Cherniske. I share two big realizations about coffee and caffeine but also a ton of information so you, too, can make an informed decision to quit coffee/caffeine OR at the very least, reduce how much you drink.
Also, I based a lot of what I share on the books I read, but I did come across some updated stats on coffee drinking in the United States. I say it's 65% (from Caffeinated), but I think it's up to 73%.
If you have any questions, just leave a comment. Thanks for watching!
Some of the References
www.caffeineinformer.com/the-...
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36424...
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22130...
Interview with Dr. Cherniske
• How Caffeine is Killin...
Michael Pollan on Joe Rogan's Podcast
• What Michael Pollan Le...

[@tinygreenpineapple]

One of the best videos I’ve seen on quitting caffeine! 👍👍👍

[@AlexKojfman]

Wow, thanks!

[@conallgallagher4591]

I second that. Very helpful

[@briandanhj4244]

Yeah i'd really liked the lego part :)

[@jasertio]

I stopped drinking a few weeks ago, and the withdrawal wasn't nearly as bad as the first time I tried quitting. I did drink one cup yesterday morning, though, and it is baffling how it absolutely screwed with my sleep during the night. Caffeine is a lot nastier than many of us might think.

[@AlexKojfman]

Yeah. I still believe giving up (a lot of) caffeine was one of best decisions I’ve made. Hope you get back to it. Do your best to drink decaf if you miss the coffee taste and “flavour”

[@meta_man_]

I agree, I have also noticed those dreams becoming more vivid

[@chknater]

What did u feel I quit feels horrible

[@moirapettifr7127]

Caffeine was causing me so many physical problems and I did not know it for a long time. I suffered monthly pain and swelling and insomnia for years until one very wise doctor suggested I stop drinking coffee and also restrict caffeine. After symptoms of withdrawal, it was a miracle how wonderfull I felt. My sleep improved my moods so good and i felt just so healthy after stopping caffeine. I must be allergic to it because the change in my total health was quite dramatic. I feel so clean and healthy without caffeine.

[@AlexKojfman]

That's so good to hear that you were able to get your health on track. Some doctors are not usually ones to recommend strongly people give up coffee/caffeine, so it's nice to hear you had one that did!!

[@horncow4160]

I've been drinking well over the recommended daily amount for 20+ years since i was in middle school and i just realized i feel sick and exhausted all the time. I feel like i have chronic fatigue, my body wants a nap every 2 hours. I'm going to try weaning off after watching some of these quit caffeine videos. At this point i don't even enjoy it anymore, i just force the coffee down even though I'm sickened by it, because I've been thinking there's no way i can even get out of bed without it. But maybe it's the problem.

[@AlexKojfman]

Thank you for watching my video and commenting and to start: there is a way out. Just stary weaning yourself off slowly. You could go cold turkey but it's hard. going from three cups down to two, down to one, and starting with half-caf and full decaf. I've been enjoying decaf and you know when I don't feel like drinking coffee I just don't. No angst about not having a cup. Keep me in the loop on your progress! I hope you get there!

[@RoseTorn411]

This part @8:15 . I went cold turkey on Tuesday after having started drinking coffee everyday about 5 years ago and i started dreaming again 😢 it was so beautiful. My mind actually went into deep sleep.

[@AlexKojfman]

Awesome! I keep looking back and have to say giving up coffee (really gross amounts of caffeine) has been the best thing for my health, sleep, and wellbeing. Keep it up!!

[@Efefem]

Very easy to listen to you and not click off because you DON'T drone on- Thank you!

[@AlexKojfman]

My pleasure! Thank you

[@JRBjornsonVideos]

After watching your video, I really appreciated the research and effort you put into it. I've struggled with quitting coffee twice. Last year, I made it 14 days before subconsciously going back. If I plan to quit again, I think I'll get rid of my coffee machine or at least put it in storage. That way, I would have to consciously and deliberately decide to go back to coffee since it wouldn't be in my house. The hardest day for me was day nine-I felt like I was going to throw up from the lack of caffeine, and the Earth's pressure felt unbearable. Despite this, I'm determined to try quitting again at some point. Currently, I'm on high blood pressure medication, which makes caffeine more relaxing for me, but I get anxiety if I consume over 400 mg. Today, I had 310 mg from a 24-ounce cup of coffee with an additional espresso shot, and it was like meeting the "God of Anxiety." However, I'm good at using bad experiences to motivate me to quit. For instance, a bad hangover usually keeps me off alcohol for at least 100 days. I believe quitting coffee could help me handle crowds better since caffeine contributes to my anxiety. During the pandemic, I learned that caffeine played a huge role in my anxiety, and my doctor advised me to go easy on it. There's never a perfect time to quit, but with my kids out of school, now might be ideal. By the time they return, I could be two months caffeine-free. Caffeine addiction is so normalized, yet so challenging to overcome. Thank you for all the hard work on your video. I hope to successfully quit coffee soon and see how it impacts my high blood pressure. Maybe getting off caffeine will allow me to lower my medication dose-only time will tell. I look forward to finding out. Cheers and thank you again!

[@AlexKojfman]

Caffeine addiction is normalized for sure. I have a bunch of comments saying they could never give up coffee and I used to be like that. I like the idea of removing your coffee machine for the time being but have you thought about just introducing half caffeine and then decaf into your coffee routine so you go down slowly? I do wish you the best in trying to do this. I find less anxiety would be better for sure but also you will sleep better I think which also helps. Or have one cup regular coffee (less than 400mg) and then a halfcaf or decaf later in the day. So long as you keep below that level you see fit. Let me know how it goes!

[@tammygilbert3023]

I'm in the middle of weaning off and I'm so excited to be fully off. Anxiety is my motivation!

[@AlexKojfman]

I hope you get there! It’s so worth it. Glad to hear from you and wish you success!!

[@SuitedPup]

I “accidentally” quit too for a period of about 10 days a few years ago. Thankfully I was able to sleep as much as I wanted to, but what I noticed most is that the anxiety I’ve come to expect and accept as inevitable in social situations was just GONE. That contracted feeling and tension in my chest, throat, face - absolutely gone. I’ve known for a fact that coffee is causing problems for me (anxiety, mostly. But also, I believe it makes me more impulsive in general) for years now, but still haven’t been able to quit. Videos like these are motivating me to give it a try. A tip I’ll add to this video, if you’re someone who’s just an adamant, give me coffee or give me death drinker… delaying your consumption til about 90+ minutes after you wake up makes a HUGE difference. More of the benefits mild euphoria), less of the negatives (anxiety and crash). And of course, less is more, and the earlier you stop in the day the better (besides the waiting 90+ minutes part). Anyways, here’s to us all beating our caffeine addictions 🥳

[@AlexKojfman]

Glad you recognized how it makes you anxious. I have heard that tip before. I'm a father of three young children, and I make French Press coffee. By the time I get to drink it, it's already cold-brew so I wish I had it at the 90 minute mark. Also, with decaf I don't think it's really an issue. But for those that have coffee made automatically or by Keurig having it right when you wake up instead of waiting might be an issue. Truth be told, I'm just glad I'm off of caffeinated coffee so I don't have to worry about it. Thanks for watching, it really means a lot!

[@brettmoore6781]

I quit drinking coffee about 5 years ago and I'm so happy I did. I recently had a cup of decaf and even that made me feel jittery and sick. I'm extremely caffeine sensitive and my 1-2 grande coffees was really amping up my anxiety and making me feel horrible. Thanks for the info!

[@christinemeldrum9698]

After 30 years of coffee I gave it up 5 months ago. I had excruciating back and hip pain for 3 days but no headache. After a few weeks of no caffeine my chronic back pain and shoulder injury started feeling better and is almost completely gone.

[@AlexKojfman]

That’s so wonderful to hear! My back pain has all but disappeared but my foot still bugs me but less so. So glad to hear your venture of caffeine has had such positive results!

[@guideg4250]

That is exact happened to me too. I thought I had injuries in my lower back and around my pelvic. But it disappeared after 3 days. The funny thing is that I am still coffee free and feeling very energetic. I sleep very well and I ate a lot of food.

[@markwalsh6714]

Great video. Thankyou. I’ve been caffeine free for five years. I went cold turkey and wow what a 3 day headache that was. After that never looked back.

[@AlexKojfman]

Great job! Sometimes I wonder if I’ll even try a cup of caffeinated coffee again just to feel it since some decaf is just fine (I’ve had great decaf but most are fine) but I just don’t want to go back to the way I was. I still marvel at how much easier it is to get up and maintain energy levels throughout the day

[@simondemirjian1075]

@@AlexKojfmanwhy not try it again? Treat it like alcohol. Have it sparingly as long as you don’t become dependent on it again. Maybe one caffeinated beverage per month, like a little treat.

[@AlexKojfman]

@@simondemirjian1075 I can have it if I really want it. However I really don't want to open up that door right now. I wonder if my coffee consumption bordered on "addiction" I do use that term lightly though. I have 1-2 cups of decaf a day. Depends on how I feel. I just wonder if I have a propensity to get hooked on caffeine if I start again. Also, I like coffee a lot and decaf satisfies that taste. I remember seeing a recent James Hoffman video on decaf and he says decaf drinkers are likely people who love coffee more bc they aren't drinking it for the caffeine.

[@shanecoopershow]

Damn brother I put this on then looked at the view count halfway in, I figured from how professionally this is put together you'd be a big channel! This is extremely well done and informative hopefully you'll get some recognition for your efforts someday :D

[@AlexKojfman]

thanks! that means a lot to hear. not going to lie, I have noticed the view count creeping up. Glad to see people find it useful. I have to say quitting coffee has been a tremendous boost to my overall health and ability to maintain energy.

[@Efefem]

Same here!! I thought his sub count was missing some zeros.....

[@Damudean]

I’ve given up for over a month more than once or twice. But every time I end up back on it. I found giving up sugar and carbs much easier.

[@AlexKojfman]

Yeah in the video when I said caffeine is in the same category as cocaine, nicotine, and morphine it felt hyperbolic but it’s hard to break. I do hope you keep trying I find it one of the best things I’ve done for my health so far.

[@zeusbark]

I have decided to quit coffee because It started affecting my breath and I'm getting excessive sweat as well.

[@RasmusSvedin]

Used to have 5 - 7 cups a day. Quit cold turkey, started to sweat profusely for 2 days and felt like shit. But the worst part came after about 4 days. Feelings of lethargy and inability to focus for 2 week. I caved and started again (albeit only 1 - 3 cups). Now I'm off it for 5 days and the feeling of lethargy is back. Gonna power through it and finally become caffeine free. People tend to focus on the adenosine blocking and sleep pressure but coffee is more than that. It's basically stress in a cup. My social anxiety WENT AWAY when I stopped. Came back when I started again and is once again gone. It can also interfere with your livers ability to filter and clean your blood to the point of you developing jaundice though that never happened to me. The supposed positive effects of coffee is based mostly on epidemiology. In other words, there is a positive relationship between coffee consumption and a bunch of nice things, but nothing says coffee actually causes it. Lastly, it's a somewhat shady industry where people and sometimes children with doubtful working conditions in south America and Africa prepare the beans and dump the waste into the water, causing pollution. Then the beans are shipped across the world. Think about how much damage big coffee really causes.

[@EarthEncountersTravel]

Coffee is full of chemicals even organic, tea, coffee and chocolate full of metals and toxins. Drink cruelty free milk or fresh nut milk cold or warm with saffron, cinnamon, organic rose petals or fresh herb paste mixed with nut milk or milk from nuts.

[@paulna85]

This comment right here

[@crackthecode9148]

Great video brother. Keep it up! I feel encouraged to keep going on my caffeine free journey after watching this

[@AlexKojfman]

Thank you for watching and the well wishes! I'm about 7-8 months (Nov 2022) and it's funny your comment hit just as I was filming another video and crediting giving up coffee/caffeine as helping me. How long have you kept off caffeine?

[@Caroline12391]

Thank you, Alex - best video I have seen on this subject and I've watched quite a few lately :-)

[@AlexKojfman]

Glad it was helpful! And thank you for the kind words. Let me know if you have any questions

[@de-stressASMR]

Great video! I’m surprised you don’t have more subscribers

[@AlexKojfman]

Thanks!! 😊

[@jef159]

I’m in my 2nd week of going cold turkey with no coffee. I was drinking 4 cups every day for 30 plus years, I now drink 4 cups of rooibus tea per day. I’m still getting terrible headaches, but I know it’s worth it.

[@AlexKojfman]

Keep going!! The real magic is after three (maybe four) weeks! Roiboos is delicious!!

[@golvellius6855]

i know that feeling you are not alone

[@elapagacz5856]

Great job Alex! Thanks for summarizing all the research. I felt like I knew quite a bit about caffeine but I learned more. I noticed long ago that caffeine has a big effect on me. I do love the taste so I have one regular espresso in the morning and then decaf and also hickory "coffee" on occasion. Keep up the good work!

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

Chicory

[@cjfromgtasanadreas]

All it took for me to really try quitting this time by tapering is going cold turkey for 7 days, feeling unmotivated and drinking an instant, it was the best high I felt in my life, motivation and focus was through the roof. I'm tapering lately and a few days and it's out completely, maybe even sooner because I notice these bad effects of caffeine a lot more and I basically drink it only because of milk and a teaspoon of sugar, on it's own it's absolutely disgusting. Lately I think like this, these are notes that help me quit: -if i crave a cup I'm usually hungry and I could eat or I have a sweet tooth and maybe a better idea is to just have a quick snack -if i drink a cup or two it doesn't really make me feel good, it makes me feel wired and fake awake, not really awake, the same feelings of tiredness are poor focus are here, what I expected of that cup is never here, only if I go without it 5-7 days and then drink it -caffeine users are actual addicts, now you can be one of those that say "oh it doesn't really affect me", but you can go ahead and shut the fuck up, it does affect you, you're bullshitting yourself and others, I know so many caffeinated people (myself included) and it's funny how the caffeine stereotype fits -sleep is very nice and just different, nice vivid dreams, I can sleep from 5pm to 3am sometimes, but I'm in early stage of quitting, it's normal -being sick also - I remember when I was younger and liked energy drinks whenever I got sick I would quit, but never thought about it, I just thought " I feel shit, why would I drink this crap now, it won't make me get better and I definitely don't crave it right now" You are so spot on, I can't wait to succesfully do this, as I said max I did was 7 days, but I was stupid and impatient, I felt the differences like being calm and sleeping well, but I was unmotivated so I went back on QUIT CAFFEINE

[@renaeselix5648]

Im attempting quitting caffeine and this video is super helpful. Thanks so much !

[@AlexKojfman]

Thank you for watching. I’m rooting for you so I’m going to try to comment in three week to see how you are doing

[@deweystevens]

Great video! I love the humor and science! Sorry to hear you were sick but glad to hear you’re better. I’m a black tea drinker and really only drink coffee after dinner when out at restaurants. But I’ve been slowly accumulating professional certifications over the last few years and to enable myself to do that while holding down a full time job with family and a KZbin channel, I will often consume an energy drink after work to power through study material. I also make kombucha so caffeine is definitely part of my life - I guess I just never considered how much. Thanks for the insight 😊

[@AlexKojfman]

Thanks for watching! And I still have some caffeine so it sounds like you are being aware of how much. I find energy drinks gross but if you have one and it serves it’s purpose then I don’t see a problem. I just pop into 7-11 every now and again and you see people buying two at a time and drinking them. Seems excessive. Plus the books and articles I read talk about military and police officers drink energy drinks (and coffee) and so they aren’t getting enough good sleep and have guns which I didn’t want to talk about in my video but a scary thought.

[@gerlachsieders4578]

Excellent, you're one of the first that clearly explain how the density of AMP-receptors is brought down again over a period of 3 weeks, coinciding with the lingering fatique in those weeks, kudo's!

[@AlexKojfman]

Glad it was helpful!!

[@CashMoneyMoore]

Great video! I'm about 30 hours into no caffeine now, watching this for motivation haha

[@AlexKojfman]

Keep it up! I've been off since November and I keep reflecting that it's one of the best decisions I made. I'll check in with you in 3 week. Keep it up!

[@CashMoneyMoore]

@@AlexKojfman Still going strong! Sleep has been great, way less anxiety. Still waiting on some of the motivation to come back for exercise and life plans, but it's coming back slowly - dribs and drabs. Similar experience to you: The lethargy the first week and a half were insane, dreams came back, (tmi) morning wood came back

[@AlexKojfman]

@@CashMoneyMoore hahaha well at least you know it's working. The motivation comes back for sure but that window of time was very challenging. Keep it up!

[@kristysunday3445]

Thank you! This was so helpful!

[@AlexKojfman]

Tha ask for checking it out! Hope if you decide to quit caffeine it goes well!

[@nathanshipley1658]

Pretty sure long term caffeine was the reason for my recent panic attacks I used to drink coffee all day everyday and have had a few random attacks. Went cold turkey 2 weeks ago starting to feel better.

[@AlexKojfman]

that's really awesome to hear! Keep at it and if you miss coffee, just drink decaf. But please don't start for at least a couple of months. You really want to give yourself a month to detox from the caffeine completely.

[@nathanshipley1658]

@@AlexKojfman it’s been easy since I’ve been drinking caffeine free tea but I’m going to hold out at least to Jan 1st. My body definitely needs a detox I’ve been drinking a lot of coffee for a long time

[@awswalaila]

I'm on my third day caffeine free. I needed this video. It recharged my motivation. Im determined more than ever now. Thanks man!

[@AlexKojfman]

You got this! Happy to help in any way. I’ll try to check in with you here in a week.

[@mishka1318]

Excellent communicator!!

[@CaroleMora22]

I drank 2-3 cups of coffee everyday for decades, especially while finishing a grueling academic program. I was feeling increasingly exhausted, even with the coffee, and not sleeping well. In early 2021, I felt so exhausted that I thought I might need hospitalization. Since I suspected that I'd done this to myself by relying on coffee to function, I began weaning myself from coffee by switching to chai tea, and matcha green tea, with some added maca and reishi powders. It is now over two years later, and I've only broken down and had coffee a few times when life circumstances were challenging. In each instance, I felt worse for a few days afterwards, but then again, return to the chai for a few days, and then try to adjust to the matcha green tea mixture. The withdrawal process experience has been slow but the underlying sense of exhaustion has been lifting as I've been introducing Chinese Herbs to replenish the Jing. In TCM, coffee is understood to extremely depleting. This experience has convinced me that the caffeine addicition is very real. As I read somewhere recently, "coffee is a drug, not a beverage." Thank you for your presentation... more people should be exposed to the information related to its dangers.

[@AlexKojfman]

Thank you and good that you listened to your body and did something about it. It's definitely a drug, no fault of coffee but all bc of the caffeine. I really like your routine that you developed to break your addiction to coffee/caffeine.

[@Wesenskern]

Wow, that's huge. Thanks for sharing.

[@maechtigerTimmy]

I will come back sometimes to keep myself motivated and dedicated to this mission. Day 5 und gottlose kopfschmerzen . Great video

[@AlexKojfman]

die Kopfschmerzen sind schrecklich ;) don’t be concerned about using ibuprofen or a headache medication (without caffeine) just to get you over those bumps.

[@tarikomar2982]

I think this video is very informative. I learned useful information from your experience and research. Thanks for sharing with us.

[@AlexKojfman]

My pleasure. Glad it was helpful!

[@ValsLooneyKitchen]

Wow, I think you included it all.

[@vildmod4661]

Last year I quit drinking coffee after hearing what you just said about it shrinking the blood vessels. The energy I got was amazing. Usually I'm tired in the afternoon and want to take a nap for an hour, which I do if I am able to. After quitting coffee I didn't have that problem. It also improved my ability to focus. But the absolut best thing about it was that I felt so calm and certain in myself in a different way which greatly improved my ability to socialize. Since then I've been back on and off, mostly on... I need more determination and watching this absolutely helped. Great video, all the best!

[@AlexKojfman]

So glad you shared! I've been toying with the idea of doing an update, since I'm 1 year off (caffeinated coffee) and still think it was and is one of the best decisions I have made. I hope you figure out what works best for you. May I ask, what makes you go back on? I drink decaf and don't feel that tempted to drink caffeinated coffee even though I could. I'm seriously worried I'll dive head first if I have my first cup (I'm exaggerating, but I wonder) (btw your comment made my day when I read it, really appreciate you sharing!)

[@vildmod4661]

@@AlexKojfman Thanks for the reply Alex! I went back because I hadn't made up my mind to quit completely. So after about a month I gave in to my cravings and made a cup, which was a bit of a disappointment. It didn't taste at all like I remembered it. But then the next day or a few days after I gave in to the cravings again and that was it. Now I have been free for a whole to days (!) and although I've had headaches I already feel like I have more energy. Woke up this morning before the alarm without being tired. If I find some good decaf I will give that a try. So far I drink water and a cup of red tea. Not quite the same, but I'll do.

[@AlexKojfman]

@@vildmod4661 I signed up to TRade (not sponsored) but they have decaf as an option and so far I've tried like 6 different roasters some are better than others, but nothing's memorable. And I've tried Fabula which is about the same price - and I fall back on that decaf more and more. When did coffee get SO expensive?! But it's nice to try different types. My local grocery store also has a bulk section with decaf so I may try that. It's a few bucks cheaper.

[@Intel-i7-9700k]

With strong cups of black tea, I still have the energy boosts of caffeine, but also the strong drowsiness and overwhelming sleepiness in the evening like I had pre-coffee.

[@AlexKojfman]

that's awesome! I don't typically drink much black tea anymore but even steeping it for 5 minutes won't bring it up to the levels or coffee. Thanks for watching!!

[@martymckay297]

I’m gonna start reducing my coffee intake starting tomorrow, just a slow decrease so hopefully I don’t crash. Wish me luck

[@AlexKojfman]

I wish you luck. But I know you can do it! Just don’t rush and use decaf if that helps trick you enough.

[@martymckay297]

@@AlexKojfman thanks bro!!

[@omnimatty]

This was a great video thanks so much.

[@AlexKojfman]

thanks for watching. I really appreciate the kind words!

[@emilcioran2919]

keep it up bro !

[@OGAesthetics]

Great video

[@user33housecats]

Another fine alternative to coffee and tea is herbal coffee like the all vegan Teeccino flavors! It can be prepared in every way coffee or tea can be served: black, like a latte, cold etc

[@slodoco]

It's been 21 days without caffeine. I have also noticed the dreaming and the restful wakening. Also I feel much less anxious during the day. I quit because someone asked me how many cups I drink a day, and I couldn't answer. I just drank coffee and tea. I never thought about how many cups. Everybody talks about not quitting cold turkey. And I agree, that is probably a good idea. I had severe muscle pain in my legs and lower back, and an occasional headache. I never get headaches. I was also very irritable and didn't realize it. I all of a sudden got angry at things I never thought I would. I could feel the anger. It was weird. This all took place in the first 10 days or so. I quit cold turkey, because I know that if I don't, I will fail. I can't eat just one potato chip either. Also I wanted the benefits of getting better sleep right away. The sooner the caffeine gets out of my body the better, I thought. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@AlexKojfman]

Keep at it! I'm at month 7 and I don't miss it. I think going cold turkey if that's what works is what some people gotta do. I'm kind of grateful that I took me getting sick to finally do it. And I too am a whole back of doritos kind of guy... at least when I was in college. So I don't eat doritos anymore. ;)

[@AlexKojfman]

how's it going with the no caffeine? You doing ok?

[@thedrj2009]

Day 6 here and I’m glad I went cold turkey so I can associate the horrible withdrawal symptoms with caffeine. Never going back. Sleep is already better.

[@AlexKojfman]

@@thedrj2009 that’s awesome!! Keep it up!

[@anjinbeats]

I remember stopping for a while when i was sick also, i did feel better but eventually i backslid because i missed the taste of black coffee. I now drink one small cup a day of organic coffee, but i am gonna try to quit now. Already 3 months of Alcohol too which has provided amazing benefits too.

[@AlexKojfman]

That must feel so good giving up alcohol! I miss the strong caffeinated taste of coffee sometimes but not really. I think one cup of the regular stuff is good I just am worried I might back slide into drinking caffeinated coffee. Keep up the good work, quitting alcohol and coffee isn't easy so just take it slow! Thanks for watching I really appreciate it!

[@bottien]

I was drinking 8 to 10 cups a day, stopt 5 days ago.Feel already great not much headaches till now.thanks for your info Alex.

[@AlexKojfman]

Excellent! Keep at it. Just asserted to someone that giving up caffeine (or that amount of caffeine) has been one of the best decisions I've made for my overall health. Keep hydrated and even if the headaches do come, they will all go away...

[@mattmcfly2165]

New sub. Great content. Feeling crappy from no caffeine. 😢 Let's do this!

[@AlexKojfman]

You got this! It takes time and once you get over that hump, like 3 weeks (more like 2-3 months) but you'll feel so much better. Then you can just do decaf for the enjoyment of coffee without the effects of the caffeine (decaf obviously still has caffeine but if you aren't super sensitive like me you will be sailing.) Thanks for supporting me and the channel! It means a lot, especially right now.

[@Olegatorse]

Great production quality for a small youtube channel!

[@AlexKojfman]

Much appreciated! Really appreciate you watching!!

[@IntuitiveCoachTheresa]

The book "Caffeine Blues" is a real eye opener. I quit because of sleep issues. It takes awhile to turn that around especially because that is ultimately connected to adrenaline overload and things other than caffeine cause that, but it definitely helps! Excess adrenaline and cortisol from caffeine, sugar and stress are the big issues for all health problems. Quitting caffeine, sugar and other foods that over stimulate the adrenals and blood sugar spikes, which also stimulate adrenaline release, is so important along with addressing unresolved emotional trauma, learning to regulate our emotional responses, etc. Also eating soluble fiber super important for helping excess hormones come out of our GI tract-soluble fiber is the only thing that binds the hormones that the liver secretes for disposal. If we aren't eating soluble fiber at regular intervals throughout the day, every day, those hormones will be recycled and are still physiologically active, which causes overload. The best sources of soluble fiber are legumes-beans, peas, lentils-and psyllium husk. Thanks for sharing this topic, really under acknowledged, especially in the U.S.! Blessings!

[@AlexKojfman]

thanks for watching and commenting! Since giving up caffeine (or going low-low caffeine) I also took on losing weight and I ended up losing 30lbs in 4 months and since then trying to do maintenance or a light bulk to build more muscle (muscle is important as we age) but in my reading I did re-discover how important fiber is and consuming foods as you listed (beans, lentils, etc.) So since tracking my food I am happy to say I'm clocking in like 40-50g of fiber a day on average (I do also get a lot of fiber from protein bars, and low-cal ice cream which adds fiber to their ingredients.

[@michaels5676]

Sugar lowers cortisol and stress it does the opposite

[@martinworkman6670]

very funny video thanks. 4 days into my caffeine withdrawal.. sleeping so much better, more energy in the mornings, surprisingly less anxious (i wasnt expecting my social anxiety to reduce so dramatically), but also so, so tired in the afternoons. guess i have an excessive of those adenosine receptors, for now.

[@AlexKojfman]

So glad to hear your anxiety went down and it was noticeable. Always nice to be able to pinpoint positives of giving caffeine up. And yeah, you'll be tired for a bit but it goes away. I went to bed last night at midnight and got up promptly at 6:30 am not feeling tired and I still believe it's because I'm not drinking that much caffeine.

[@robinsmith4958]

Hi, great video. I have quit caffeine several times but never stopped feeling tired. I went about 2 months but since I didn’t get energy back I went back to the caffeine 😢😢

[@AlexKojfman]

As long as your sleep isn’t affected too badly and you are okay with it. I found it took me three months to feel better!! But the energy thing is a good question. I started working out and going for more regular walks outside six months after I quit so I was getting my energy that way thanks for watching and commenting. 😃

[@robinsmith4958]

@@AlexKojfman thank you. I am weaning off again, for like the 5th time…… I am not sleeping well and it ramps up my anxiety. Maybe I need to stay off longer to reap the rewards. I wish I never got addicted to caffeine. 😕

[@AlexKojfman]

it takes many attempts but let me know how I can help. I can offer this weird thing that's been helping me with my weight loss. I read in the book Ultra Processed People that there was this study where they wanted some people to quit smoking and one group read about smoking (the effects, etc.) and the other just quit (weren't reading anything) and the group that read about it ended up kicking the habit. Now for me I read those books on caffeine, perhaps reading the book (or listening to them) can help you stay the course, like a reminder of what it's doing to you and that you can do it. I've been reading about food, dieting and nutrition and I'm like 25 books in and learning a lot and also hearing the same things BUT I think it helps me stay on track. Just some food for thought. I hope this go around works for you. It does take time. :)

[@MuzakFavo]

Thank you for your video, although I don’t resonate with everything, I think it’s great that you are raising the awareness regarding this risky and addictive stimulant. I quit coffee, decaf, black and green tea and cola - cold turkey about 6 weeks ago. I quickly realized that I even had to drop dark chocolate, as only a few bites caused me having intense migraines. Later, I thought I could at least have a few bites of milk chocolate - I mean how much caffeine can it contain? But after repeated tries, I find that I consistently get dull headaches, sleep badly, feel tired and slightly anxious (for no reason) from only a few bites of milk chocolate. I don’t think I have become “over sensitive” to caffeine since I stopped cold turkey, as feeling “down” to plain awful actually was my normal before. And the only time these negative symptoms have reappeared is when I accidentally got served a cup of green tea or ate a couple of bites of dark, or milk, chocolate. I do miss chocolate, but I love living with a clear mind, and pain free, so much more! So dropping, caffeine is no loss now! I don’t yearn for the coffee taste at all, nor for the refreshing feel of cola, as I have simply lost the habit. A warm cup for breakfast is lovely though, so I have a wide variety of herbal teas to choose from now, which gives me joy to pick from and consume. Best of luck to all caffeine quitters!

[@Wesenskern]

Same here. I cannot even have chocolate. I quit coffee and black/green tea 15 years ago. I used to be addicted big time so it was very hard and took several attempts. I did have to figure out that even chocolate is too much for me personally. It's just not worth it. My very last attempt/bite was 10 months ago and that was it for good. My energy is way more stable without it, and I am no longer thinking about these substances (which really bothered me). I did not like so much of my life revolving around needing my caffeine/chocolate fix.

[@Wesenskern]

And, less anxiety!!!

[@tipitiiew]

Replacing coffee with cacao in the morning works great. I feel it cheers me up better. In the evening, somewhere around 15 to 16 I sip something that calms me down, like chamomil tea, with taurine. That really makes me relaxed in the evening and offers a good night sleep.

[@AlexKojfman]

I gotta try cacao!

[@tipitiiew]

@@AlexKojfman Make sure it's organic cacao and not cocoa, which is the processed stuff. It's better for blood flow than coffee, but it may also contain heavy metals, so wear earplugs... 🙃

[@ResponseMindBody]

Cacao has caffeine in it

[@Dashulka10]

Look up Jordan Peterson he quit everything to cure his fatigue , psoriasis , and anxiety . So cool . Quitting coffee is def a best thing & sugar

[@carlwatts1230]

Have you tried the fully plantfree way of eating? Some of the carnivore doctors argue that it isn't just caffeine but that all plants contain defense chemicals and that we can get all the nutrients we need from fat and meat without the harmful stuff. Plants are living things and like any living thing they defend against being eaten. They can't run away, hide or fight like animals do. Instead they become poisonous. It is argued plants are a survival food for humans to be eaten only if we don't have meat available.

[@Damudean]

Funny I was going to suggest the same.

[@carlwatts1230]

@@Damudean More and more people are discovering the information and or trying it for themselves. The arguments for humans being carnivore are strong and the personal results when people try it speak for themselves. On an ecologicla level it could be a lifesaver as well. Regenerative grazing could rebuild the soil and restore ecosystems where there currently exist huge monocrop death fields which deplete the soil and displace what could be rich grassland ecosystems.

[@Damudean]

@@carlwatts1230 I’ve been carnivore for a year today

[@AlexKojfman]

Thanks for watching the video! I haven't tried plant free, because i don't believe that type of lifestyle. I like a wide variety of food and it’s always good to get a balance of food sources. My general philosophy is to never stray too far to the right or to the left. And I’d be a little wary of anyone suggesting I give up a whole food group (that includes veganism, but sometimes giving up animal protein can be about ethical reasons, which can be a legitimate reason.) Or if anyone suggested to eat just bananas, or raw food, or just fish, it doesn’t jive with me. Plus, I don’t think those carnivore doctors are correct. I've seen a bunch of stuff from that Paul S guy - probably the one whose popularized it on socials with his videos. As I understand it vegetables and fruits that we eat aren't poisonous, some may have deterrents to avoid being eaten, a survival mechanism like caffeine, but it doesn't kill us (obviously since we have been eating plants and haven't all died off as a species.) Sure, plants also don't have the same defense mechanisms as animals (teeth, claws, although some plants have spikes) so they develop other ways to "defend" themselves. But like all evolutions, humankind has also evolved to outsmart those plant defenses. Much like we’ve outsmarted most animals. Also, and most importantly remember the dose is the poison. It reminded me of a fact I read when I was 15 years old that almonds (and apple seeds) had a bit of cyanide in them. And that to die from that cyanide you'd have to eat something like 10000 almonds a day for like a couple of years. Now with enough cyanide you could die, but no one (in their right mind) could/would/should eat that many almonds. Also, the cost of doing that, if that's how you wanted to off yourself…there are more economical ways, I’m sure. Same goes to all these carnivore doctors that are telling me that broccoli will kill me. No, it won't. Which now that I type this, I wonder if that Paul Carnivore MD guy drinks coffee? Secondly, the point about “our ancestors” is a pretty broad statement. There are plenty of tribal/indigenous groups, and even if you go back far enough, they didn’t all eat only meat. So that argument doesn’t hold. But again, even if that would be slightly true if we went back far enough, we have evolved to consume more. And consuming vegetables and fruit are more efficient way to get those vitamins and minerals. Lastly, there is a lot of data backing up that vegetables (and fruits) are healthful for humans. And there are plenty of studies that say long term consumption of meat can lead to cancers and diminished health markers in your cholesterol, increased chances of heart attacks, etc. A lot of these studies go back decades, some even a century, and from what I understand this Carnivore doctor has been doing this for about 2-3 years. I’d be interested to see how he fares in 5-10 years. But you’ve given me a lot to think about and I’ll look into it a little more. I recently did a 3-day, and a 5-day fast and will make a video on that, but it was based on the Longevity Diet by Valter Longo who said one component of a healthy long life is eating a mostly vegan diet with occasional fish (it’s always fish isn’t it… with the omega, and low fat.) Again, thanks for commenting and watching and I do hope you consider eating some vegetables. Even if they are “dangerous” they sure are tasty.

[@Damudean]

@@AlexKojfman I was going to list why you might rethink some of this stuff. But instead I’ll recommend you don’t listen to Paul Salad boy. As he will struggle as carnivore isn’t eating 400 gms of fruit a day. I will suggest though cholesterol isn’t a problem, (so check out about why Ansel Keyes is maybe one of the biggest frauds of all time, and I’d also suggest watching a little of Dr K Berry or Dr Anthony Chaffee. I’m not saying go carnivore but reducing a so called food group which our bodies don’t need and usually only used when food was sparing would be a good idea. For this reason also look up the Randle cycle. Which was actually given a very boring name by him but renamed at a later date. A professor that knows about this in great detail is Professor Bart Kay.

[@playingindies6730]

I accidentally quig caffeine when a heatwave started here. I didn't drink coffee but I did drink lots of sodas. Due to the heat I was too lazy to carry sodas back from the store, so started drinking lemonade and water instead. When my head started to hurt I assumed I was just thirsty or tired and drank a lot. Took almost a week of headache before I realized I didn't have caffeine all week and it could be causing it 😂

[@AlexKojfman]

Yeah it sneaks up on you. When I was drinking coffee and I missed a day I’d get a headache and not make that connection until later and was like “oooh yeah I didn’t have my coffee”. Crazy how dependant we get on it without realizing it.

[@playingindies6730]

@@AlexKojfman yea it is definitely strange. But since it was already about a week, I felt like it might be better to just sit the headache out.

[@SirLee07]

I enjoy the energy burst of caffeine in the morning, makes me charged up but I guess the nighttime thing is a hindrance... vicious cycle

[@prodigyxl]

I almost read all the comments! You guys are having a good time quitting coffee. This is not my case, I'm on my third times trying to quit coffee. I went from 5-6 coffee a day to 2-3 to 1-2. I'm now at 1 steady. Going at ZERO is my goal... First time I tried to quit "cold turkey" I had severe migraines, never experienced before, it was insane. I felt like having a hole in my brain. This is why I'm still trying progressively now, I've been addicted for more than 25 years. This is hard to stop. The video and the comments are helping me. Thanks!

[@AlexKojfman]

You're almost there! great work... it's not easy weaning yourself off so going from 5-6 to 1 is amazing progress. I've been getting some really nice comments here lately so I may do my 1-year update. Thanks for watching this and I'll try to encourage more comments to keep other motivated!!

[@Bruhne]

Liked and subscribed!

[@AlexKojfman]

Thanks really appreciate it!!

[@alaypatel6050]

Decaf can be a slippery slope. You wont stay on decaf for long coz you ll need more and more caffeine. Eventually you ll switch to regual coffee.

[@AlexKojfman]

Fair point but decaf has very little. 1-5% maybe closer to 3% over several brands. I’ve been doing ok so far.

[@user-hw2pn8zr2k]

Good video, Alex, what's next?

[@AlexKojfman]

I have a few ideas for recipes to share including a chicken soup one. But to be honest in the health sphere I’ve lost 25 pounds and building strength. Been reading a lot on that and trying to do it right as best possible. Almost as a follow up from my five day fast experiment

[@DubVChuck]

I use caffeine pills when I lean off that way I can track exactly how much I’m getting

[@AlexKojfman]

smart! if it works, it works. Hopefully you've stayed off of it as much as you can. Keep it up!

[@23bramble]

I went cold turkey the first time and vowed never again , my mood had never been so low. This time i am weaning of it slowly over a period of around 3 weeks.

[@AlexKojfman]

probably a good idea. Going cold turkey is brutal, but I'm still drinking decaf only and seriously can't imagine something better I've done for myself than giving up caffeine. (eg I was filming my next video and got to bed at midnight and got up at 6:30am no problem. It's been like that for a while. Just saying, while I do love sleeping in, getting up an not feeling so groggy and crappy, has been such a welcomed life change.) Thanks for checking out my video and commenting.. Means a lot to me. And Good luck. I know you can do it!

[@23bramble]

@AlexKojfman thankyou and your welcome 😊

[@Alphagambler117]

I don’t even drink decaff coffee but I usually do this drink coffee only Saturdays or Sunday If I have the cravings If not i wont

[@AlexKojfman]

I wonder how I'd start to feel if I drank regular caffeinated coffee just once a week. I'm worried it would affect my sleep or start me on that slope towards drinking more (just knowing myself and how much I really loved coffee.) It's nice to see you can just have one cup on the weekend. Something I definitely might consider down the road.

[@bet6467]

Has anyone found they lost weight?

[@AlexKojfman]

Funny you should mention that. I did a follow up video and I do attribute my getting off caffeine to being more consistent in going to the gym and having more energy and because of all that I’ve lost 30 pounds. I should do a more in depth video on how and what but yeah. I sleep much better which is a key component to weight loss (lowers stress/cortisol levels, and in the end you don’t elevate your hunger hormones. I know when I don’t get a good night sleep bc my young son gets up at 4am I eat more) kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKe2iYWhibKbidksi=LfHGI3fvwwwNFst1

[@robertknull456]

I went on a diet, 6 months later I was getting muscle cramps and soreness in my upper legs. I was driving for about 4 1/2 hours because of a detour on a fishing trip, I got a bad muscle cramp on my hip bone area, I tried drinking water but not much of a help. When I got home I took calcium and magnesium, later added potassium, seemed to help a little bit, but then I stopped drinking coffee as it can act as a diuretic. The soreness and muscle cramps are now gone.

[@AlexKojfman]

Glad you are feeling better!! I took magnesium for soreness too. Helped a bit. Since i had the script/bottle Now I use a little magnesium to sleep deeper. Apparently we are all a little magnesium deficient so using it before bed helps.

[@geejaybee]

This is the result of the American corruption of coffee drinking. In civilised countries, we drink coffee in small cups which have approx 50mg caffeine. The US typically drink coffee in buckets, just like they do with "sodas".

[@AlexKojfman]

Excellent point. Espresso shots are also very popular and can have 75-150mg depending on how strong it is, and perhaps drinking more cups of coffee in the office or as a stop drink at gas stations and coffee shops contributes to our over-caffeination. Thanks for watching and the comment!!

[@ImCallingBluff]

"unwind" by Ona coffee is a great decaf

[@AlexKojfman]

I'll check them out. I signed up for one of those mail me a pack every month companies and they are decent. And I've tried Fabula which is good. I like switching things up so I'm on Ona's website now. Great packaging, and Australian! (Edit: They don't ship to the US! But looks good.)

[@tomcarroll6744]

Don't go back to drinking de-caf, you will wind up on 2x as much real coffee as a result. Keep going, you owe it to your wife and kids.

[@AlexKojfman]

Thanks for the tip! But I've been enjoying de-caf for a while and I sleep like a baby and still have as much energy. Plus I get to enjoy the taste of coffee. Just not as much caffeine. I only drink 1-2 cups a day if that. When I was drinking the "real stuff" I was on 3-4 cups. You give it up completely?

[@brianmcnary3960]

I decided to fast for the first 3 days . Seems to be helping.

[@AlexKojfman]

Oh interesting! I just did a three day fast last month for other reasons and about to start a five day fast. But I will address caffeine a bit in that. Hit me up on how it’s going in a couple of weeks. Maybe when you hit that three week mark.

[@brianmcnary3960]

@@AlexKojfman will do , it’s day 2 no caffeine and I feel pretty good . I believe that while fasting your brain will be able to better correct itself .

[@dv8-makaveli365]

Bro stop already you are in every coffee quitting video in the comments enough is enough !

[@brianmcnary3960]

@@dv8-makaveli365 haters want to hate , lovers want to love , I don’t even want none of the above , I want to pee on you , wanna piss on you , now what it do , gonna see it through, pee pee pee , drip drip drip on your ego trip .

[@hanskazan7403]

​@@brianmcnary3960prob failed for the 100th time lolllll😂

[@DED_MEEM]

Ive been on anywhere from 400-700mg of caffeine everyday for 19 got dang years. Since about 4 years after I started I haven't felt good. From 20 years old on. No sleep. Anxious. Nervous. Angry. Bad guts. Shaky. Miserable. I never even considered it might be the caffeine. Holy Christ I have to stop.

[@AlexKojfman]

Just start. Ween off slowly, by introducing half-caf, then decaf. It's worth it.

[@Hippy2021]

I don't drink coffee anymore but switched to matcha tea ceremonial grade. I heard matcha is high in caffeine too but different reaction. Is it good or same effects sd coffee?

[@AlexKojfman]

If you google the difference they will say that matcha has less caffeine but they say a serving size is MUCH smaller. Coffee's 8oz (about 100mg caffeine) to 2oz of matcha (about 70mg). But if you have an 8oz cup of matcha then matcha is much worse as far as caffeine. As far as a different reaction: It might feel different, but caffeine is caffeine.

[@JulianSerafica-mr4pf]

very. true

[@norse_cat]

I accidentally quit in Sept. 2023 due to a really bad UC flare up that sent me to the ER twice. The withdrawal sucked but I made it through and felt good for a bit with more water consumption, eating better, etc. However, I went back to it in mid-October 2023. I’m kinda bummed I did. I’m really an addict again with it - probably more than before my UC flare. I keep meaning to cut it again.

[@AlexKojfman]

Oh that doesn't sound good, I really hope you give it another try. Maybe try weaning off of it gradually, like stay caffinated, then half-caf, then decaf. Mixing it up a bit. Crazy part is that it takes like 3 months to clear all of it out of yours system and then you start to really feel good about being off of it. It's one of the hardest legal substances to kick so try again when you are ready. I found some decent decaf and even though it still has a little caffeine it's no where near the amount I was consuming. Thanks for watching and keep me updated!

[@lindah.611]

32 years coffee and soda free. I like hot chocolate, but that is once a week, 200 mL only. I quit cold turkey and would not recommend it. I had headaches and dizziness for a good week.

[@AlexKojfman]

yeah it's hard to recommend cold turkey because it's so terrible. Thanks for watching!

[@JoshuaJakee]

I knew a guy who quit coffee… saw him last week on Hollywood Blvd strung out on Coke ⛄️

[@AlexKojfman]

that escalated quickly. Or did you mean Coke the soda pop?

[@christophernupp4591]

Just like any drug you will go through withdrawals after quitting

[@cheeseballs3825]

I'm on day 9 of cold turkey. I'm not sure if I have the flu, or this is withdrawals? I was feeling fine up until yesterday, I woke up today tired, achy, sore throat, slight cough, and extremely runny nose. I decided to take the day off and trying to get some rest.

[@AlexKojfman]

Oh I hope feel better. I think it’s the flu so maybe ride that wave. And keep off the caffeine. I think your symptoms might feel worse if you are sick. I hope you feel better soon!!

[@kimkoons4535]

i just like a warm drink in the morning i dont need it i use decaf w

[@TheCharlieCurrie]

Given that the purpose of sleep is the adjustment of the only constant in the human body, body temperature, I'm shocked that caffeine studies haven't gone deeper into the pharmacokinetic analysis and only related it to the absorption of caffeine. Even if the absorption were the same, like everything, the effect on the body will have a thermodynamic component. Like all things of a knee-jerk nature, there has not been any such examination.

[@AlexKojfman]

From what I understand some studies on caffeine are funded by associations that have members that include Pepsi coke coffee orgs so it’s in Their best interest not to illustrate a detrimental conclusion.

[@martymckay297]

Nescafé Gold has good decaf

[@AlexKojfman]

I'll look into that! Thanks for watching!

[@katielacey1981]

Alex, what are your thoughts on using caffeine pills to wean off? I bought these caffeine pills called Wean Caffeine but there's not much info on the website or any testimonials. I was just trying to find a way to lessen the withdrawals.

[@AlexKojfman]

I read on reddit that for some it works and others it doesn't. The reason I see it not working is you aren't breaking the habit as much as you are trying to break from the caffeine. I think weaning off of it with decaf would be better bc you are still doing your ritual (of drinking coffee. With having smaller cups). I can't say it won't work, and perhaps might be helpful to help slowly taper off. However, once you stop drinking caffeinated coffee you'll feel pretty terrible after week 2 and through week 3 (really tired. I know I say that in my video but I can't stress that enough.) Just stay motivated. It's worth it. I won't go back. And now I have fun finding a decent decaf bean. Some on that reddit post did recommend just going cold turkey (like I did when I got sick) but it's really miserable and the whole process still takes 3 weeks. I would much rather encourage a) taking it slow b) not using pills if you don't have to c) know that this is doable and mark your calendar your success day three/four weeks from when you start, that way you are motivated to get there. But you know you and you can always take ibuprofen or something to lessen the headaches. And I took this out of the video but drink lots and lots of water! Thanks for watching. And feel free to ask any more questions!

[@katielacey1981]

@@AlexKojfman thank you so much for your informative video and quick reply! I can see how taking caffeine pills would not be effective with breaking the ritual.

[@AlexKojfman]

Wishing you all the best! I hope you get the break from caffeine!

[@hanskazan7403]

@@katielacey1981 quitting with caffeine pills is the best method imo, buy 100 mg pills and take 1 pill every time you would drink a coffee and then build the pills off 1 week 4 pills 1 week 3 pills etc you get off the caffeine slowly and youre dont feel like shit while quitting

[@AlexKojfman]

@@katielacey1981 how's it going with the no caffeine? Have you managed to ween off of it?

[@ph69jbl]

Started my journey to quit one of the most legal drug. First one is sugar and I am almost off that too

[@AlexKojfman]

So it’s been almost 2 weeks. Wanted to check in and see how it’s going? First few weeks are tough. Where are you at w the caffeine withdrawal?

[@ph69jbl]

@@AlexKojfman thanks for following up! No headaches! And the urge to get a coffee is decreasing in intensity. Sleep is amazingly better

[@Shellbee22]

I drink mostly Matcha the Theanine in it makes it digest differently then coffee

[@abdelhadivandam6258]

Macha theanine? Really strange information. . You drink it daily. Is it beneficial?

[@user-uu2nw6fl6z]

I stopped drinking coffee over two weeks ago. I did it because I injured my left knee after completing my first marathon. I had to slow down with my running and coffee made it hard for me to slow down. Coffee increases heart rate and it would make me run fast. With my knee injury, running fast has become painful. So as an experiment, I stopped drinking coffee, something I thought I would never able to do because I had been drinking coffee since I was 5 years old. I grew up in the Philippines, and drinking coffee with your parents when you're a preschooler was normal. The first two days was hard, but it became easier after that. I have what I call "just right" energy," which I like better. I have been able to engage in simple but important tasks which I procrastinated on because the caffeinated me would prefer doing things that require a lot of energy such as running and working out. I have been able to run slower while recovering from my knee injury. I don't think I will ever go back to drinking coffee.

[@AlexKojfman]

Ouch, I'm sorry you injured yourself. I was talking to two friends who ran the LA marathon and they told me how challenging it was. But good on you for taking the time to quit coffee. Sounds like you've been drinking for a very long time!! But now that you've quit -- keep at it! tI's been 1.5 years for me and I haven't gone back to drinking caffeinated coffee. Now I still do have chocolate and very rarely some black tea (not a big fan of it), and I have had some sips of regular coffee, but still no desire to get back into that habit. Thanks for checking out the video! (Just remember it does take up to 3 months for the caffeine to get out of your system completely.)

[@user-uu2nw6fl6z]

@@AlexKojfman I didn’t know it would take that long for my system to be caffeine-free! I now run, swim, and strength train with no coffee. Who would have thought that’s possible? lol

[@AlexKojfman]

@@user-uu2nw6fl6z I know! I have more energy than I did when I was on coffee. In my follow up video I've lost 30 pounds and weight train and I really believe the motivation or energy I have is a direct result of not being on coffee. So crazy. :)

[@user-uu2nw6fl6z]

@@AlexKojfman that’s amazing! Will check your follow-up video. You know what’s also amazing? My mom and my husband also stopped drinking coffee. Our entire household is now decaffeinated!

[@AlexKojfman]

@@user-uu2nw6fl6z Yeah my wife doesn't want to give up caffeine, and it's funny bc we don't have any coffee at home for her to drink :S

[@josemontano7767]

I quit smoking weed with no problem i find quitting coffee is super hard to do.

[@AlexKojfman]

Yeah it’s hard AF because one so many coffee shops, and that buzz did help in the moment. And there are so many social cues around too. But I hope you at least try if that’s what you want because the other side is awesome.

[@BookClubDisaster]

also much harder to quit than alcohol

[@filipvaclavik2858]

Month ago I got super sick, got antibiotics etc … Probably a Lymes disease but doctors are not sure. However I read somewhere on r/quttingkratom that when u get sick, its good idea to cut down on kratom because withdrawal symptoms will blend in. So I stopped caffeine and kratom, it has been a month now and Im so grateful that I did cuz I was doing 3 300mg scoops of preworkout a day

[@SUPERFLUID88]

I quit coffee about 2 weeks ago and I feel like I’m in a glass jar but I know I’ll feel better in a couple of weeks.

[@AlexKojfman]

definitely. you are in the toughest part, keep at it!!

[@4.25.18]

So are you still drinking decaf sporadically or are you back to drinking regular coffee?

[@AlexKojfman]

Still drinking decaf. Won’t be going back.

[@tommystrong2278]

Great video! - do you mind me asking if you consume alcohol? I also recently read 'why we sleep' and I have become very interested in learning more about how two common consumed substances (caffeine and ethanol) impact our sleep. I am abstaining from alcohol for one thousand days (random goal but I wanted something long) and noticed improvement in sleep right away, I am curious what my sleep would be like removing caffeine as well.

[@AlexKojfman]

Hi! Thanks for watching it. I don't really drink alcohol. Not to say I abstain completely, but I may have a beer or wine very infrequently. In fact my family and I were on vacation a couple of weeks ago and I had 3 cocktails over 5 days at the resort and it was the most I drank really. As for sleep and caffeine - hands down the best decision I've made for my health and sleep has been giving it up. I drink a cup or two of decaf a day and it's a 90% reduction. I cannot get over how easy it is for me to get up regardless of how much or little sleep I got. I usually go to bed at 11pm and still get up 6 or 6:30 am with no problem. Not to say i WANT to get up, I'd much rather be sleeping, but the day has started! Not sure how far along you are in your 1000 days, but with three years of no alcohol, I'd suggest minimizing your caffeine slowly and seeing how it goes. Keep me in the loop on your progress!

[@tommystrong2278]

@@AlexKojfman First off, thanks for taking the time to reply. I am about 40% along with regards to the 1,000 day goal. I was a weekend / social drinker - and I was surprised how much it improved my sleep given I wasn't a daily drinker. Regarding coffee/caffeine - I most definitely am a daily drinker on that front! I actually started my "caffeine holiday" four days ago and wanted to see how it would feel to quit cold turkey. I have had a slight headache but otherwise feel good thankfully. I should disclose that I did not wait to try decaffeinated coffee so technically speaking I am still ingesting whatever amount of caffeine is in a cup of decaf (one cup a day right now). If you enjoyed "Why We Sleep" and are curious about some of the more current science on alcohol listen to an interview with Prof. David Nutt or better yet read his book called "Drink? The New Science of Alcohol and Health" - a nuanced discussion about alcohol risks by someone that imbibes himself.

[@AlexKojfman]

@@tommystrong2278 I've added Drink? to my libby queue, always interested in learning something new - even if I don't drink alcohol much it would be good to learn something about the body.

[@Ascend1991]

Watching while drinking a big cup of coffee😆

[@haniabuhijleh1634]

do carnivore for psoriasis

[@user-if4xc9li7s]

I would sell my Tv for a coffee haha

[@AlexKojfman]

haha. I've felt that way too (in the past). I do sometimes miss those coffee drinking days.

[@rminitials]

Your sub and view count don't match the production quality. Great video.

[@AlexKojfman]

Working on it! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@nathanchenery1075]

Did it last?

[@AlexKojfman]

So funny you should ask! I am coming up on one year. I was debating on making a video but I will do an update. I still think it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. I am currently doing a lot to lose weight and build muscle and I think getting sleep and being off mass amounts of caffeine just helps. How about you have you thought about it much or quit?

[@nathanchenery1075]

@@AlexKojfman I’ve quit a few times. Cold turkey. Always end up slowly going back within 6-12 months. Am looking for help/ inspiration on quitting forever

[@AlexKojfman]

How can I help? Tbh take it slow. I’d suggest working in decaf into your routine. Also don’t be afraid to take ibuprofen to mitigate headaches as you ween off and stay hydrated w water. (Of course if you have issues taking ibuprofen don’t). But I believe you can also get half caf coffee at Starbucks. And seriously consider reading about caffeine so you keep occupied (I find reading about stuff occupied my mind - which I’ve done for food/dieting/nutrition). I’ll comment back in three weeks and see how you are doing.

[@haniabuhijleh1634]

whoop doodle doo

[@AlexKojfman]

Doodle doo woo bop 🎵wait are at we doing here? 🎶

[@joshgreer3527]

Don't drink coffee but drink cokes and tea

[@EarthEncountersTravel]

De caff is coffee you re lapsed and are a coffee drinker again 😅

[@AlexKojfman]

Very glad to be drinking coffee w very little caffeine. I still love coffee

[@windyacresway]

Decaf still has caffeine...a lot less but still not caffeine free......

[@AlexKojfman]

Yep! First off thanks for watching. I do address caffeine levels in the video. Like chocolate has caffeine and so does tea (but I'd never expect anyone to give up caffeine completely.) And of course decaf has caffeine. For me going from 600mg to about 50mg has completely changed my life as far as energy and sleep. So indeed - a LOT less is what I would recommend. But people out there could attempt caffeine free lifestyles, but unless it's a medical reason I would advocate just minimizing it.

[@GideonGalactic]

Dude.... you didn't quit caffeine lol decaf has caffeine in it lol nice video though 😂

[@ashleyking3865]

Bro, decaf has caff eine.

[@AlexKojfman]

Bro, it has 90-95% less caffeine. Drinking 1 cup decaf at 7-10mg caffeine is better than 3 cups (300-500mg). 😎😀

[@taze8230]

Decaf has 8 to 13% the caffeine of regular caffeine coffee.

[@AlexKojfman]

@@taze8230 I know right! What I read said something like 7-10% and I figured a cup had about 100mg of caffeine, but thanks for the updated numbers. I went down from 3-4 cups of regular to one (maybe 2) of decaf, so me getting 10-50mg sure beats 400-600 ;)

[@tblightningbolt8902]

Cortisol is why

[@AlexKojfman]

Can you elaborate - what does cortisol do, I'm just not sure what question you are answering.

[@BookClubDisaster]

@@AlexKojfman cortisol is our fight or flight, stress hormone which caffeine elevates