• Prince William's health-conscious choices
  • The science behind caffeine and cortisol
  • Expert tips for reducing caffeine intake

Prince William, known for his commitment to a healthy lifestyle, has recently made notable dietary changes as he navigates his 40s. Despite access to exquisite cuisine, the Prince once confessed to having a "rubbish" diet. As age and health awareness increased, he began eliminating certain foods for better mental and physical well-being. One significant change was cutting out coffee, which he previously enjoyed in the mornings. During a BBC Radio 1 Life Hacks discussion, he revealed, "If I drink coffee, I get completely bananas. There's too much caffeine, caffeine gets me really agitated, actually."

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Prince William's Health-Conscious Choices

The Prince's decision to eliminate coffee is rooted in its effects on his health. Hannah Alderson, a BANT-registered nutritionist, explains that caffeine can trigger adrenal glands to release cortisol, the body's main stress hormone. While this can improve alertness, chronic stress combined with elevated cortisol levels can lead to feeling "wired yet tired." Daniel O'Shaughnessy, a certified functional medicine practitioner, adds that caffeine blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes calmness and sleep, increasing alertness but also stimulating adrenaline. For those sensitive to stress or sleep-deprived, this can cause agitation.

Expert Tips for Reducing Caffeine Intake

Many, like Prince William, give up coffee due to anxiety, poor sleep, or a sense of dependence. As Daniel O'Shaughnessy notes, some no longer need the "artificial lift" once their blood sugar and sleep stabilize. For those seeking alternatives, experts suggest lower-caffeine options. Green tea and matcha offer caffeine with L-theanine, providing a smoother, less jittery experience. Yerba maté is another stimulating option. For minimal caffeine, chicory coffee, roasted dandelion root, or adaptogenic blends can offer a mild lift without affecting the nervous system.