The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that children should avoid caffeine entirely. This recommendation comes as concerns grow over the impact of caffeine on teenagers, especially in light of new findings regarding their consumption habits. According to a nationally representative poll, nearly 25% of parents report that their teens consume caffeine most days or every day. This trend has sparked discussions among health experts about the potential risks associated with caffeine intake in adolescents.
High school students require approximately eight hours of sleep each night, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, caffeine consumption, even in small amounts such as a cup of coffee, can disrupt sleep patterns. The effects of caffeine typically peak within an hour of consumption but can linger for four to six hours, potentially interfering with a teenager's ability to get adequate rest.
Experts recommend that teens limit their caffeine intake to a "reasonable" amount of 100 milligrams per day, roughly equivalent to an 8-ounce cup of coffee. Chocolate, coffee, and energy drinks are significant sources of caffeine, with energy drinks often containing "dangerously high" levels. For teens unaccustomed to caffeine, it can cause issues such as increased heart rate, anxiety, and jitteriness.
"Compared to adults, there is less certainty about the safe level of caffeine intake in children and adolescents," – Report
Given these potential side effects, health experts stress that teenagers should not rely on caffeine to wake up in the morning. Instead, avoiding caffeine altogether is considered the "best choice" for kids, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Caffeine dependence can be particularly problematic for sleep-deprived teens, who may find themselves needing caffeine just to stay awake.
Parents and teenagers should be aware of the signs of caffeine dependency and ensure any caffeine consumption occurs by early afternoon. This practice helps minimize disruptions to sleep patterns and supports overall well-being.
"Negative health effects, such as poor sleep patterns and high blood pressure, have been reported among adolescents." – Report
Many popular caffeinated drinks among kids and teens contain added sugars, non-sugar sweeteners, multiple stimulants like caffeine and taurine, and other additives. These ingredients are generally not recommended in isolation and are especially cautioned against when combined.
"Most caffeinated drinks popular with kids and teens also have large amounts of added sugars, non-sugar sweeteners, multiple stimulants such as caffeine and taurine, and other additives," – Report
Dr. Edith Bracho Sanchez emphasizes that caffeine is unnecessary for a teen who is resting adequately and maintaining a balanced diet. Dr. Danelle Fisher concurs, noting that not consuming anything daily would be healthiest for teens. However, she acknowledges that an occasional cup of tea or soda can be acceptable if it does not cause extreme effects.
"Caffeine itself is not necessary for a teen who is resting and eating well," – Edith Bracho Sanchez, MD
"Not taking anything on a daily basis would be healthiest," – Danelle Fisher, MD
"But I do think it's OK for a teenager to have a cup of tea or a soda periodically, as long as they don't have extreme effects from it." – Danelle Fisher, MD
Dr. Fisher also highlights chocolate as a significant source of caffeine that is often overlooked. The potential for increased heart rate and feelings of anxiety or jitteriness are concerns associated with caffeine intake in teens.
"Chocolate is a big source, too," – Danelle Fisher, MD
"It can cause an increased heart rate, and make them feel a little anxious and jittery," – Danelle Fisher, MD
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