From Coffee Skeptic to Decaf Devoted: My Journey and Why “Decaffers” Exists
For most of my early life, coffee was the distant aroma I’d walk past in cafes, a world apart from my taste buds. It smelled great, but the flavor never appealed to me.
That was until my twenties, when sugary, caffeinated Caribou Coffee concoctions sparked a love affair with the rich, creamy beverage. By 30, I was a full-blown coffee devotee, my office pot my faithful companion, fueling long workdays. But beneath the comforting warmth lurked a dark secret: caffeine’s grip on my health.
Heart palpitations became a nagging reminder of my dependence. I’d occasionally cut back, switch to earlier cut-off times, but over time, the message was clear: caffeine was amplifying anxiety and stealing my sleep. Then, in 2022 at 44, COVID and became the unwanted wake-up call. Stuck at home, feeling like total garbage with a resting heart-rate over 80, the connection between my poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and caffeine intake became undeniable.
That’s when I made a monumental shift. Excessive sugar, sodium, and even my beloved Pepsi were out. Running became my new ritual, and most importantly, caffeine was cut off cold turkey. The difference was astonishing. Within weeks, the fog lifted, energy soared, and sleep became my superpower. Weight dropped, and for the first time in years, I felt lighter in spirit.
But there was a void. Yes, the jitters and anxiety were gone, but I missed the coffee experience – the aroma, the ritual, the warmth in my hands.
Enter chicory, my temporary companion. While earthy and flavorful, it wasn’t quite “it,” but it served its purpose and helped me shake my caffeine habit. After a few months, I began to work some decaf coffee into the mix: a treat of 50/50 chicory-decaf coffee blends (on weekends only at first). Slowly, steadily, decaf became my main squeeze, with chicory occasionally making a nostalgic cameo.
Today, two years later, I’m a “Decaffer” through and through. My heart palpitations are a distant memory, anxiety a blip on the radar. But my love for coffee, the ritual, the flavor – that’s unwavering.
And that’s why “Decaffers” exists.
This isn’t just about decaffeinated coffee; it’s about reclaiming the coffee experience without the harmful side effects. It’s about celebrating those who choose a different path, a path paved with delicious flavor, mindful indulgence, and ultimately, a healthier, happier you. I’m passionate about:
- Exposing the hidden costs of caffeine: It’s more than just jitters; it can impact our well-being in insidious ways.
- Empowering others to kick the habit: You’re not alone, and the rewards are worth it!
- Championing delicious decaf: There ARE amazing options out there, and they deserve to be shouted about!
- Shining a light on brands, coffee shops, and coffee producers that do decaf right: Let’s celebrate those who cater to the discerning decaf aficionado!
Join me on this journey of exploration, discovery, and yes, delicious decaf coffee. Together, we can rewrite the narrative and prove that good things come without the caffeine buzz. So, grab your favorite decaf blend, pull up a chair, and let’s get started!
Life Beyond Coffee
By day, I have my dream job as Technology Director at Full Focus, helping navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape and helping our clients win at work AND succeed at life.
At home, I’m Dad to three amazing daughters, and husband to my favorite gal, Sarah, for almost 23 years. Our giant, furry companion, Aury the Great Pyrenees, rounds out our lively crew. Whether hauling our girls around to activities, exploring the middle Tennessee countryside with Aury, or enjoying a quiet evening with Sarah, I find joy in the simple moments, fueled by family, laughter, a good book, and maybe a [decaf] cup of coffee in hand. I’m a fan of vinyl records, guitars, backcountry camping, and trying new things.
This blog might be about decaf coffee, but it’s ultimately about living a life filled with flavor, connection, and mindful choices. And I’d love for you to join me on this journey, one delicious cup of decaf at a time.
We drink our coffee because we love it, not because we need it.