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Many of us have developed a serious coffee habit, but in our younger years, our parents probably discouraged us from having any caffeine. Parents often impose strict rules on their children’s food and beverage choices, and coffee is typically off-limits. However, these days, it’s not uncommon to see teenagers sipping on coffee as they head to class or hang out at the mall. So, when does this transition occur? Whether it’s an iced coffee during social outings or a post-practice mocha for an energy boost, young people are consuming caffeinated beverages at an increasing rate. Has drinking coffee become a daily ritual rather than a special treat for 15- and 16-year-olds? Is it even safe? Can you allow your kids to have coffee? While this caffeinated drink might be your idea of heaven in a cup, if you’re wondering whether it’s suitable for your children, we’ve got the information you need. Continue reading to learn more!
Is Coffee Bad For Kids?
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As is always the case. Everything in moderation. Coffee isn’t particularly bad for your kid but there are a few concerning things to look into before you hand them their own cup every morning.
Caffeine Content:
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that children under the age of 12 should avoid caffeine entirely. Despite this recommendation, a study published in the journal Pediatrics revealed that approximately 73% of children and adolescents consume some caffeine daily, with coffee, soda, and energy drinks being the primary sources. The AAP does not endorse this practice. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, youngsters between the ages of 12 and 18 should limit their daily caffeine intake to no more than 100 mg, which doesn’t amount to a substantial quantity of coffee.
Fat And Sugar:
Have you realized how any beverage your child orders in a coffee shop is doused with every form of sugar known to mankind? Cream, whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate, caramel, the list is never ending. This significantly increases the amount of sugar and fat that they consume. And it can even likely reduce the intake of healthy beverages like water. This can be detrimental to them in the long run.
Side Effects Of Coffee For Kids
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The body of a child is not the same as that of an adult. They are still growing and developing, which makes them that much more vulnerable. So, the side effects of coffee experienced by kids can be drastically different than those experienced by adults, and they can be much worse.
Here’s a list :
- Frequent urination and the risk of dehydration runs high when kids drink caffeinated drinks and coffee. Coffee is a diuretic, which means that high amounts can dehydrate children.
- It can even alter their mental state. A study showed that caffeine intake can be associated with increased feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Caffeine intake can lead to a poor sleep pattern as it can alter a child’s sleep cycle. This in turn can interrupt the growth of their brain and body.
- It can cause jitters and nervousness, and be the cause for an upset stomach and nausea.
- Enables a dependency on caffeine. Drinking coffee on a regular basis can become a habit and kids can suffer from withdrawal effects like adults do. This can include mood swings, tiredness, headaches and difficulty concentrating.
Nonetheless, the most significant concern is that excessive caffeine intake can result in a caffeine overdose, potentially necessitating medical intervention for your child. According to the AAP, symptoms of a caffeine overdose may encompass vomiting, elevated blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat, irregular heart rhythms, and, though less frequently, confusion and hallucinations. Children and teenagers with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart problems, seizures, or migraines, may face a higher risk of caffeine-related complications compared to others.
How Much Coffee Is Okay For Your Child?
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According to the AAP, you’re not supposed to give your kid any coffee or caffeine at all. But if you’re okay with your kid having a small amount every now and then, there are some guidelines set by Canada that you can follow. Children and adolescents up to the age of 18 can drink 2.5 mg per kg of body weight each day. If your child is adamant about starting to drink caffeine because all their friends in the fifth grade are doing it, talk to their doctor first. They can recommend the right amount based on your child’s health condition.
It’s not the end of the world if your child consumes a little caffeine once in a blue moon, but it’s a whole other discussion if they’d like to drink coffee everyday. Make sure you take their physical and mental health into consideration and consult a pediatrician before you let them have a nice big cup.
Sources:
- Caffeine in Foods, Government of Canada
- Trends in Caffeine Intake Among US Children and Adolescents, AAP
- Caffeine consumption and self-assessed stress, anxiety, and depression in secondary school children, NCBI
