This morning hit hard. The cravings came at me full force — the kind that make you think, “If I had just one cigarette, I’d do it.” Luckily, I was ready for that moment. No cigarettes, no lighters, no butts hiding in old pockets — nothing. Preparation saved me.
Later, I went with my family to pick up a new mattress and grabbed a large cup of Coke on the way back. The caffeine gave me a little boost and seemed to dull the craving. That got me thinking: Is caffeine a friend or foe when quitting smoking?
For some people, caffeine can be a trigger. That morning cup of coffee with a cigarette used to be a sacred ritual. The smell, the taste, even the café vibe can spark memories of smoking breaks. But for others, caffeine acts like a small reward — a manageable buzz to replace the nicotine high without the damage.
I’ve heard in 12-step groups that swapping one addiction for another can be dangerous. That’s how I ended up in this mess to begin with. Still, when used in moderation, caffeine doesn’t carry the same physical consequences. Sure, it can cause anxiety or mess with your sleep, but it’s not going to land you in the hospital like cigarettes can.
So the verdict? It depends on the person. For me, a good cup of coffee or soda helps more than it hurts. It keeps my hands and mind busy without dragging me back into old habits.
What about you? Do caffeine and quitting mix, or does it just make the cravings worse? Let me know your thoughts — I’d love to hear how others handle this tricky balance.
by Dan and Bonkers
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