A Case Study Investigating a Behavioural Intervention to Reduce Caffeine Consumption

Heath G Mcintosh W

doi:10.4172/2167-0420.1000186

Abstract

This case study investigated a behavioural intervention to reduce caffeine consumption in a 50-year-old female with a 35-year history of consuming >350 mg caffeine per day. The participant completed a behaviour diary for 10-weeks, recording amount of caffeine consumed, type of caffeinated drink, time, location, who she was with and the activity in which she was engaged. She also completed a 10-point performance scale, and recorded tiredness and headaches. Baseline data was recorded for one week, and then Functional Behavioural Analysis of the diary data was used to design an intervention. A graduated intervention was implemented: Stage 1 (1-week), caffeine<=160 mg/day; Stage 2 (1-week), caffeine<=80 mg/day; Stage 3 (7-weeks), caffeine<=35 mg/day. Caffeine was reduced to planned levels during the intervention period. Perceived performance ratings were significantly improved during the three stages of the intervention relative to baseline (p<0.05). Frequency of daily tiredness increased during Stage 2 and decreased overall during Stage 3 relative to baseline. Headaches were at least as frequent during the intervention as they were during baseline. Findings suggest that the intervention was successful over this 2-month period. Further monitoring is recommended in order to ascertain whether headaches and tiredness (possibly symptoms of caffeine withdrawal) persist.

Highlights

Caffeine is one of the most highly consumed drugs worldwide [1], with recent estimates suggesting average daily consumption for adults is approximately 280 mgs [2]
While research indicates that overall caffeine intake increases with age [3], choice of caffeinated beverage is often different across demographic groups
Caffeine consumption via coffee has been linked to older age, Caucasian origin and higher income level [4]

Summary

Introduction

Caffeine is one of the most highly consumed drugs worldwide [1], with recent estimates suggesting average daily consumption for adults is approximately 280 mgs [2]. While research indicates that overall caffeine intake increases with age [3], choice of caffeinated beverage is often different across demographic groups. While gender differences in total caffeine consumption are not clear, those ingesting caffeine from tea (as opposed to coffee) are more likely to be younger, female, and non-Caucasian with lower levels of education. Caffeine consumption via coffee has been linked to older age, Caucasian origin and higher income level [4]. Marketing for caffeinated energy drinks has been targeted at younger people, and consumption is common among college students [5]. Higher consumption has been found among smokers and those with higher alcohol intake [4]

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Conclusion