Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning, it increases your urine output and thus, dehydrates you. Basically, it crenates your cells (imagine squeezing a water soaked sponge) and being dehydrated causes a whole mess of problems (e.g., dry skin, headaches). Why does caffeine make us feel better and why is it included in many pain relievers? Because it temporarily dilates our blood vessels, releasing pressure it also stimulates pleasure neurotrasmitters.

Another thing to take into consideration, especially for females, is that caffeine can deplete calcium stores in our bones which may increase your chance for osteoporosis.

As with any drug, habitual consumption leads to tolerance and of course, we all metabolize differently based on weight, levels of activity, genetics. While I am not a physician, I do have significant clinical experience and I would recommend that you gradually decrease your caffeine consumption over a 7 day period while consuming water. You do not need to drink copious amounts of water. There is such a thing as over-hydration and it can be dangerous as it affects the sodium and potassium levels in your plasma. 48-64 ounces of non-caffeinated beverages (water, tea, juice) should be fine.

Good Luck!

Dear RIAA, You have won. All of us misadjusted p2p users are no longer sharing mp3s of legitimate artists. Instead, we now trade songs of our children banging on pots and pans. Sincerely, Your Customers.