Posted by noa on June 22, 2000, at 11:49:14
In reply to Re: caffeine and AD's..Subtopic: Sodas and Weight, posted by Johnturner77 on June 19, 2000, at 11:35:56
I agree that for many people, sodas, and other soft drinks with sugar in them, account for a LOT of uncounted calories. When I started on lithium, my internist warned me to stick to water because I would be drinking a lot more and therefore, at risk of gaining weight from sugary drinks (including juice and juice drinks). I read somewhere that for some people that may be the primary reason for weight gain on lithium--just the addition of calories from drinking more and having all one's drinks be sugary. I also noticed while on lithium, that I had particularly strong cravings for soda, especially regular coke. It was more than just thirst--I really wanted coke. I also craved sugary juice/tea type combos. Then I became extremely addicted to Coke. I made the decision to stop the sodas altogether and cut down on the juices. Then I stopped the lithium, and lo and behold, the cravings for sugary drinks was almost completely eliminated.
As for caffeine, I decided to stop regular intake of caffeine. I do have tea drinks (much less caffeine and not as well absorbed for me as with coffee and soda) about two or three times a week. Coffee is now limited to infrequent occasions. I feel a whole lot better this way. I was having problems with fidgitiness and agitation and insomnia from the effexor, and it seemed silly to continue with caffeine, which causes the same problems.
Also, I think the stimulant from ritalin, etc., doesn't cause me the same effects as caffiene. With ritalin, I don't feel buzzed at all. And the amount of stimulant intake is more controlled and regulated because I know I take my 20 mg sr two times a day. With coffee, unless you are extremely careful and consistent with brand, amount, density, etc., it is hard to know if you are taking in the same amount of caffiene at the same intervals, etc.
Also, I have a feeling that caffeine is "dirtier" than methylphenidate, et. al. JohnL, you might be able to fill us in on this one.
poster:noa
thread:37763
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000619/msgs/38107.html