Decaf coffee may still contain enough caffeine to cause withdrawal

A new study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology suggests that consuming decaf coffee can cause caffeine withdrawal symptoms in regular coffee drinkers. While decaf coffee is often marketed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, the study's findings may prompt some people to reconsider their beverage choices.

The study involved 51 people who were regular coffee drinkers, meaning they consumed at least 200 mg of caffeine daily. Participants were divided into three groups and asked to consume either regular coffee, decaf coffee, or a placebo. The decaf coffee contained about 10 mg of caffeine per serving, while the regular coffee contained 100 mg.

After one week, the participants were asked to switch to another group and consume the assigned beverage for another week. Throughout the study, the participants recorded their caffeine withdrawal symptoms, which included headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

The results of the study showed that participants who consumed decaf coffee experienced more withdrawal symptoms than those who consumed the placebo. Furthermore, the severity of withdrawal symptoms was similar between the decaf coffee group and the regular coffee group.

The study's authors noted that the amount of caffeine in decaf coffee may be enough to cause caffeine withdrawal symptoms in people who are used to consuming higher doses of caffeine. They also noted that the findings suggest that decaf coffee may not be a suitable substitute for regular coffee for people who are trying to reduce their caffeine intake.

However, it's worth noting that the study had a small sample size and only lasted for two weeks. It's possible that a longer study with a larger sample size could produce different results.

Overall, the study highlights the importance of being mindful of the caffeine content in beverages, even those that are marketed as decaf. People who are trying to reduce their caffeine intake should be aware that decaf coffee may not be a suitable alternative and should consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to their caffeine consumption.