Health

Am I hooked on tea?

I drink lots of tea and get irritable if I don’t get my regular fix throughout the day. Is it possible I’m addicted?
Bob Bennett, by email

Irritability is a symptom of caffeine withdrawal but it’s far more likely to be down to something else, such as dehydration or stress. Other withdrawal symptoms include headaches, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Some people even develop flu-like symptoms and muscle aches.

The more tea or coffee you drink, the worse these symptoms are when you don’t get your ‘fix’. The good feeling that first cup of tea or coffee in the morning produces may not be because it’s giving you a boost but because it’s combating the effects of overnight caffeine withdrawal.

You don’t have to cut caffeine out completely but try cutting down by drinking decaffeinated tea or a caffeine-free botanical tea instead. Try drinking a little more water each day too. This should help stop you feeling irritable and boost your energy.