‘My mood is stable all day long… it is beautiful’: Bryan Johnson on avoiding stimulants like coffee and nicotine to achieve steady well-being | Health News

Bryan Johnson, the millionaire entrepreneur known for his ambitious efforts to reverse aging and optimise health, has sparked curiosity with his unconventional lifestyle choices. Among them is his decision to avoid coffee and other stimulants, which many people rely on to kickstart their day. 
Explaining his reasoning on content creator Jay Shetty’s podcast, Johnson said, “I do not drink coffee. My emotions and intellect now are so steady, from quality sleep, a good diet and routine exercise, that anything that creates a rollercoaster of change, I avoid. And so, I don’t do caffeine, I don’t do nicotine, no stimulants… and my mood is just stable all day long… it is beautiful. ” His focus on maintaining this steady state of well-being has led him to steer clear of habits that might disrupt his body’s equilibrium.
When asked if he’d suggest people to avoid drinking coffee, he replied, “Some people do very well with it so, I’m just sensitive to caffeine so I think a lot of people do well. Do your thing… do you, and follow the data.”

Johnson’s statement raises important questions about the effects of stimulants like caffeine on our physical and mental health. While coffee is often celebrated for its ability to boost energy and focus, its potential downsides, such as dependency and energy crashes, are frequently overlooked. This approach of abstinence prompts a deeper examination of how stimulants influence our daily lives and long-term health.
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Potential long-term effects of regularly consuming stimulants
Dr Jagadish Hiremath, a public health intellectual, mentions, “Chronic caffeine consumption may lead to dependency, resulting in withdrawal symptoms like headaches, irritability, and fatigue. It can also disrupt the cardiovascular system, increasing heart rate and blood pressure, which may pose risks for individuals with pre-exing heart conditions. Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association links excessive caffeine intake to arrhythmias in predisposed populations.”
Over time, he adds that regular stimulant use can overstimulate the nervous system, potentially exacerbating anxiety disorders, contributing to sleep durbances, and diminishing overall mental well-being. 
Impact of stimulants on the body’s natural ability to regulate energy and focus
Frequent stimulant use can lead to over-reliance, notes Dr Hiremath, impairing the body’s natural mechanisms for energy production and focus. The adrenal glands may become overstimulated, leading to hormonal imbalances and a condition often termed ‘adrenal fatigue.’
“Avoiding stimulants allows the body to rely on its intrinsic energy regulation mechanisms. Abstinence can stabilise cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. A study in Psychopharmacology (2020) showed that individuals who stopped caffeine intake reported better sleep efficiency and reduced feelings of fatigue over time,” he states. Story continues below this ad
Regular exercise stimulates endorphin release and enhances circulation, contributing to natural energy boosts. (Source: Freepik)
For individuals accustomed to stimulants, strategies that can help them transition to maintaining energy levels 
Transitioning away from stimulants requires a combination of dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and mental discipline. According to Dr Hiremath, these are:
Gradual Reduction: Abrupt cessation can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Gradually decreasing caffeine intake helps the body adapt without severe side effects.
Nutritional Support: Focus on whole foods rich in magnesium, B vitamins, and iron to naturally boost energy levels. Foods like spinach, nuts, and legumes can support mitochondrial function.
Hydration and Sleep: Adequate water intake and maintaining a consent sleep schedule are foundational for sustained energy. Avoiding screen time before bed also enhances sleep quality.Story continues below this ad
Physical Activity: Regular exercise stimulates endorphin release and enhances circulation, contributing to natural energy boosts.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.