Caffeine is a commonly used drug in America. In 1996, an estimated 85% of the US adult population consumed some sort of caffeinated beverage daily. One significant effect of caffeine is that it amplifies release of the adrenal hormone cortisol for many hours after it is consumed. Over time, this results in an overworked and eventually fatigued adrenal gland.

Most people consume caffeine to help them wake up and stay awake during the day. If you rely on caffeine as a pick-me-up, you may want to try tyrosine supplements and eat tyrosine-rich, protein foods in the morning to help you stay alert. Tyrosine can be purchased at almost any health food store in 500 mg capsules. Try taking one capsule first thing in the morning to help you get up. If no improvement is felt, you may want to increase your dose to two or three capsules per dose. This can be repeated at about 10 am (between meals) and 2 pm to improve focus and energy, if needed. Taking B vitamins with the tyrosine is helpful. Too much tyrosine will make you jittery, like too much caffeine does.

Guest post by Lisa Hill MD