Feeling Anxious About Going Caffeine-Free During Ramadan? Here Are Steps to Help You Cope!

With the arrival of Ramadan, many women find themselves facing new challenges related to changes in their daily routines, particularly those involving coffee consumption. Going without the usual morning cup of coffee can cause stress, a common experience among those who are fasting. But why does abstaining from coffee have such a powerful effect?

The origins of coffee date back to the 9th century AD when an Arab goat herder discovered its stimulating effects. Since then, coffee has become an integral part of the daily routine for many people around the world. Coffee, often referred to as the “black elixir,” is a source of caffeine, whose effects vary depending on the amount, type, and method of preparation. This explains the withdrawal symptoms some people experience when they stop drinking it, such as headaches and fatigue.

Clinical nutritionist Faten Al-Nashash explains that regular caffeine consumption makes it difficult for the body to adapt to the sudden withdrawal during fasting, leading to tension and stress. She advises women to gradually reduce their coffee intake before the start of Ramadan to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.

On the other hand, Dr. Ghassan Kaawar, a consultant in internal medicine and cardiology, notes that the body gradually adapts to fasting. Although some women may feel fatigue and stress at the beginning of the month, the body begins to adjust to the fasting routine, alleviating these symptoms over time.

Understanding the effects of coffee and the importance of gradually reducing its consumption before Ramadan can help women better manage stress. Despite the challenges, Ramadan can be an opportunity to reassess daily habits and achieve a healthy balance between routine and mental well-being.