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Read Dr. Elena Krasnov's Weekly Column in the Health & Fitness section of the 24 Hours Magazine. Look for new articles every week!

Monday, March 22, 2010

Coffee Addiction Can Damage System

Q: Dear Elena: My father is a caffeine addict. Sometimes he has 9 cups of coffee a day.

Recently, I noticed that his eyes are protruding a bit and he is more irritable, and fatigued. I am wondering if something is wrong with his Thyroid? What can my dad do if he does have a thyroid problem?

Signed, Tina, Port Perry

A: Caffeine addiction is the real thing and it employs the same effects as addiction to other substances of abuse such as alcohol, drugs and cigarettes. Another compounding problem with caffeine addiction is that it affects many people differently. Some caffeine addicts are satisfied with a low level of caffeine intake, like a few cups of coffee. Others can't seem to function without a liter of cola and a few caffeinated energy drinks every day. Since an addiction to caffeine is highly personalized, standardized treatment remains illusive.

Your father's problems can be a number of different things and thus he must first get a check up from his physician. It could be his thyroid however it could be also a number of different things that are contributing to his symptoms of fatigue and irritability. He needs to have his liver and kidney function checked and at a minimum get his complete blood count.

With 9 cups of coffee a day he could overload his liver detoxification mechanism and loose vital liver function. It is probable, that his adrenal glands are also over worked due to constant over- stimulation. That can be a cause of fatigue and irritability. He must cut down on his consumption and soon. The best thing that works for my patients is to cut down 1 cup per week. It would take a while but that way he can avoid withdrawal effects and can continue to function at an acceptable level. I don't think it is possible to cut out such huge caffeine consumption without gradual withdrawal and be able to maintain ones obligations.

Liver and kidney drainage must be included to support overworked organs and to promote the removal of toxins. The one I use the most is a homeopathic detox kit for liver, kidneys and the lymphatic system. With it I use milk thistle herbal supplement for liver regeneration. If he is extremely tired he could take an adaptogen such as Canadian ginseng. Korean Ginseng should be avoided because it can cause your father to be more irritable.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online at 24hrs.ca

Co-written by Miranda Tallon-Malisani Holistic Nutritionist