You might notice it if you were to stop drinking coffee for a week - slight caffeine withdrawal. Also, I think that a small percentage of the obsession does come from caffeine addiction, the anticipation of the “hit”, etc. “No noticeable effect” can also mean that you just feel normal with it, but a bit uncomfortable (or tired) without.
I wouldn’t underestimate the drug, not anymore - doing a detox made me realize how it’s still a drug that does stuff to your brain and possibly your body.
With a couple of friends, we did a 0 caffeine challenge for a week. First to drink any caffeinated drink would have to get the first round of drinks after work on Friday.
Knowing the first couple of days I go without coffee I'm pretty slow, I started on the Saturday rather than the planned Monday.
On Tuesday I was getting tested for Covid because I was feeling feeverish (no actual fever), had cramps and intense pain in my back. By the end of the week I was feeling a little better. On Friday, we all had a cup of coffee together, no one had lost the challenge.
All that to say that never again will I underestimate the drug.
You’re probably right, although I know people who get headaches if they go one morning without it and that’s certainly not the case with me (and I can sleep after a shot of espresso too).
I don’t underestimate it, but so far the evidence seems to point to moderate coffee consumption being a net benefit. I’ll probably try having a no-caffeine week at some point anyway, just for, you know, science.
I wouldn’t underestimate the drug, not anymore - doing a detox made me realize how it’s still a drug that does stuff to your brain and possibly your body.
Of course, YMMV.