There’s no denying that as college students, we go to great lengths just to fulfill our caffeine addictions. 

Already late to class? You can bet I’m still waiting in this horrendous line at the Dunkin’ Donuts for my pumpkin spice iced coffee. Running low on cash?

That won’t stop me from dropping five or six bucks at Starbucks for a tasty caramel frappuccino.

Despite our questionable efforts to always ensure that we have that caffeinated drink in our hands, I truly believe that we would be just fine without coffee or any caffeinated drinks for that matter.

Don’t get me wrong, I sure love my coffee, soda and energy drinks but when I really gave it some deep thought, I found myself wondering how much it actually does for me in terms of keeping me alert.

Sure caffeine will keep you awake, but does it really keep you running in a way that is healthy?

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According an article on livestrong.com, “Excess consumption of caffeine can lead to side effects such as a shaky, jittery feeling, a rapidly beating heart, nervousness or dizziness.” So, yes, it will keep you awake, but this type of alertness may make you feel uncomfortable.

This is not to say that I am not guilty of catering to my caffeine addiction. Most of the times I find myself drinking coffee, soda or energy drinks simply because I’m a sucker for a sweet drink.

If you’re drinking caffeinated drinks because you enjoy the taste, then go for it.

But if you’re drinking them because you want to stay awake, you make want to explore other options that will be more beneficiary to you. According to the article on livestrong.com there are multiple other ways to help keep you awake and energized throughout the day without the help of caffeine. “Healthy methods of a providing an energy boost include getting regular physical activity, reducing your amount of stress or working less, eating a diet that contains several types of low-glycemic foods, such as nuts and high-fiber vegetables and drinking water throughout the day.”

Speaking for myself, I know that nothing gets me pumped up and energized more than a getting a good, hard sweat out at the gym.

Even if you just take a quick half-hour out of your day to do some cardio at the gym, you might be amazed at the results.

There is a common misconception that working out will only make you feel even more tired than you actually do. I completely disagree. Oftentimes I walk into the gym feeling groggy and out of sorts.

But once I’ve gotten my workout in, I feel like a whole new person.

I feel more alert and much more prepared to tackle any of the days problems. I am by no means an anti-caffeine person.

In fact, I frequent the Bean and Bagel on campus to get that vanilla caramel cream iced coffee I dream about all class.

However, that doesn’t mean that I can’t think twice about my ways of recharging.

Consciously realizing that there are healthier, more effective ways to stay awake is something that we all need to realize.

Sabrina Lapointe can be contacted at slapointe@keene-equinox.com