When it comes to our child’s food habits, we encounter multiple dilemmas about what to consume or what not. Can my child drink this? Is my child eligible to consume this food? And so on. Amongst them, one of the most common questions parents come up with is, "Is caffeine good for my child?"

What is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a compound found naturally in certain plants. It is added to food, drinks, and supplements, and majorly works by stimulating the brain. It is one of the most commonly used psychostimulants (substances with mood-enhancing and stimulant properties) among people across all ages.

What are the benefits of caffeine?

The most common reasons why children and adolescents consume caffeine are for increased alertness and reduced drowsiness. Caffeine is also an ergogenic aid, and its consumption can help in various endurance sports, resistance training, combat and team sports, as well as exercises with high glycolytic demands.

In addition, the cognitive-boosting effects of caffeine are widely accepted. It may prevent or restore memory, and moderate doses can help improve attention, reaction times, and verbal reasoning.

How much caffeine can my child consume?

The intake of caffeine and caffeinated products has increased in recent years due to the easier availability of colas and energy drinks. High intake of caffeine and caffeinated drinks may be associated with various health issues and sleep disturbances. Some studies report that the recommended limit for children and adolescents should not exceed 100 mg/day or 2.5 mg/kg per day, respectively.

Did you know?

The main constituent of energy drinks is caffeine. Most energy drinks also contain a lot of sugar or artificial sweeteners to mask the bitterness of caffeine. Therefore, high intake of energy drinks poses a risk for obesity and diabetes in children and adolescents.

Does caffeine have any harmful effects?

The intake of caffeine and caffeinated products has increased in recent years due to the easier availability of colas and energy drinks. High intake of caffeine and caffeinated drinks may be associated with various health issues and sleep disturbances. Some studies report that the recommended limit for children and adolescents should not exceed 100 mg/day or 2.5 mg/kg per day, respectively.

Caffeine Content of Some Common Foods

Youth, adults, and young children have also reported symptoms like weakness, shivering, headaches, tachycardia, insomnia, and, in extreme cases, depression. These symptoms are more pronounced in individuals with high consumption of energy drinks. Another known fact is that children also lack the reasoning and experience to control the amount of caffeine consumption.

To summarize, as per the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, children and adolescents should stay away from caffeinated energy drinks and beverages. Safe dosage levels for caffeine in children are lacking.

For any nutrition-related queries, call our toll-free number or send in your questions at 1800-220-009 or 720875 1145.