10 Caffeine Withdrawal Symptoms
Symptom #9: Depressed Mood
Sudden caffeine withdrawal can bring about a depressed mood. These depressive feelings are not related to some life situations or work pressures but are due to the lack of caffeine in our system. When using caffeine, your brain temporarily increases the production of a chemical substance known as serotonin, which is important in positive mood regulation. Moreover, chronic caffeine intake has been shown to increase the quantity of receptors for serotonin and their sensitivity to the molecule.
This means that cessation of caffeine intake results in decreased levels of serotonin and its effects. The brain has come to expect more action in its serotonin receptors, and when the brain’s abundant supply of the chemical is cut off, depressed moods and irritability can ensue.
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