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Thinking of Quitting Energy Drinks? Here’s What You Need to Know First

Considering a break from energy drinks? Here’s what actually happens when you quit - from withdrawal to recovery - and how to make it easier.

Team Uncanly
Quitting Energy Drinks Guide (Photo by Ambo Ampeng/Unsplash)

Quitting Energy Drinks Guide (Photo by Ambo Ampeng/Unsplash)

Thinking of Quitting Energy Drinks? Here’s What You Need to Know First

Deciding to stop drinking energy drinks might seem simple - until you try. What starts as a good idea can quickly turn into a foggy, irritable mess if you don’t know what to expect.

This guide breaks down what actually happens when you quit, what withdrawal really feels like, and how to make the process easier.

What Happens When You Quit

The first 48–72 hours are usually the roughest. Here’s why:

  • Caffeine withdrawal sets in - headaches, fatigue, mood swings
  • Sugar crashes hit hard if you’re quitting sweetened drinks too
  • Cravings spike, especially during the times you usually reach for a can

It’s not just physical. There’s an emotional layer, too - energy drinks often become part of your routine, identity, or even coping strategy.

How Long Does It Last?

Everyone’s different, but generally:

  • Days 1–3: Withdrawal peaks (fatigue, irritability, headache)
  • Days 4–7: Sleep starts to stabilize
  • Week 2: Mental clarity returns, energy rebounds
  • By 1 month: Mood and focus often improve beyond baseline

The key? Push through the first week. That’s the biggest barrier.

Tips to Make It Easier

Here’s how to survive the transition:

  • Don’t quit during a stressful week - time your detox smart
  • Hydrate like it’s your job - water helps flush your system
  • Eat complex carbs and protein - steady energy > sugar spikes
  • Replace the ritual - tea, sparkling water, a walk, anything that breaks the association
  • Use an app to track your symptoms and cravings (we built one - more below)

What You Might Notice

  • Better sleep (finally)
  • Less anxiety or racing thoughts
  • More stable energy without the crash
  • Savings - quitting can save hundreds a year

Why Most People Fail (and How to Avoid It)

The #1 reason people relapse? They treat quitting like a willpower test.

Instead, treat it like a process. Plan for withdrawal. Use tools. Tell people. Track your progress.

You don’t need to white-knuckle your way through it. You need a system.

Want Help?

That’s what we’re building. Uncanly helps you:

  • Track your energy drink intake and triggers
  • Manage withdrawal and cravings with science-backed tools
  • Build new routines that actually stick

If you’re serious about quitting, we’ve got your back.


One month from now, you could feel like a completely different person. But only if you start.

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