Beyond the To-Do List - Productivity for Work and Life James Beshara on Caffeine Alternatives for Energy and Productivity
Feb 11, 2020
Startup founder James Beshara discusses his journey with caffeine addiction and his exploration of alternatives like green tea with L-theanine for enhanced productivity and stress reduction. The conversation also delves into the importance of considering safe sources of energy, cognitive functions, and stress management for optimal productivity.
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Caffeine Led To A Serious Health Crisis
- James Beshara developed atrial fibrillation at 26 after drinking about five to seven coffees daily while running a startup.
- Doctors linked the condition to stress and excess caffeine, prompting an ER visit and cardioversion.
L-Theanine Changed The Trajectory
- L-theanine in green tea extends caffeine absorption and blunts cortisol spikes, offering calmer alertness than coffee.
- That single insight launched James's multi-year research into safer, sustainable alternatives to caffeine.
Productivity Is Energy, Cognition, And Balance
- Productivity equals energy plus cognition plus balance, not energy alone.
- Modern work demands lateral thinking, memory, and stress control beyond simple wakefulness.