A social media manager and influencer, Kylie Ohlson, decided to quit consuming caffeinated beverages in March to help alleviate her anxiety. Ohlson, a 20-year-old from Salt Lake City, used to drink no more than two cups of caffeinated drinks per day. She found that caffeine was exacerbating her anxiety, leading her to eliminate it from her diet. Ohlson’s decision to quit caffeine came after noticing side effects such as eye twitches, gut problems, inflammation, acne, and heightened premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Since quitting caffeine, Ohlson has experienced increased energy, improved focus, and reduced anxiety throughout the day.
Despite the numerous advantages of coffee, including increased vitality and prevention of diseases like Parkinson’s and heart failure, it may not be the best option for individuals with anxiety. Amy Baertschi, a registered dietitian, highlighted that caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that can raise heart rate, blood pressure, and cause symptoms like heart palpitations, exacerbating anxiety in those who are already predisposed to it. Ohlson shared her experience of quitting caffeine on TikTok, where she described it as “curing” her. She also noticed clearer and glowing skin as a result of quitting caffeine, as the positives outweighed the negatives for her.
In her TikTok video, which garnered over 101,000 views and 12,000 likes, Ohlson shared that she was mentally in a better place and her skin had never been clearer since quitting caffeine. Giving up caffeine meant losing the daily ritual of enjoying a cup of coffee or juice in the morning, but Ohlson found ways to adjust her routine. She replaced coffee with water containing electrolytes and occasionally indulged in a decaf latte as a treat. Ohlson emphasized the importance of moderation in consumption and shared that her overall mental health had improved since quitting caffeine, giving her better control over anxiety.
Other TikTok users shared their experiences with quitting or moderating caffeine intake in the comments section of Ohlson’s video, with many noting a reduction in anxiety symptoms. Some users mentioned feeling moodier without caffeine but recognized the positive impact quitting had on their anxiety levels. Ohlson reflected on her journey of quitting caffeine, acknowledging the challenges of breaking the habit but ultimately finding relief from anxiety. She encouraged others to consider their consumption habits and be mindful of how different substances can impact their mental health. Ohlson’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care and making choices that prioritize overall well-being.
