Caffeine Effects on 14 Year Olds
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. It is estimated that 90% of US adults drink coffee or tea each day, making it a truly pervasive drink. So what happens when 14 year olds start drinking it? Even though many experts agree that small amounts of coffee are safe, long-term effects are still not fully known. This article takes an in-depth look at this topic, exploring the current knowledge as well as the risks associated with drinking coffee at a young age.
First, let’s take a look at the effects of caffeine. High levels of caffeine can have serious health consequences, such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, insomnia, irritability and anxiety. Caffeine has even been linked to behavioral changes in teens and children, such as attention problems and hyperactivity. This is especially concerning for teenaged drinkers of coffee, as adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the effects of stimulants like caffeine.
Moreover, the most current research suggests that caffeine can negatively affect growth and development. Studies show that regular intake of caffeine in teens can impair hormone production as well as disrupt metabolism, making it hard for them to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, research has shown that caffeinated drinks can interfere with calcium absorption, which is essential for healthy bones.
On the other hand, some experts believe that the dangers of caffeinated drinks are overstated, and that the benefits may outweigh the risks. For instance, they point out that there is no evidence that caffeine has a long-term negative effect on the body. Furthermore, contrary to popular belief, caffeine has not been shown to cause cancer, diabetes, addiction or heart disease. Moderate amounts of caffeine may even provide some benefits, such as improving alertness, memory and concentration.
Coffee and Nutrition
Coffee is a relatively calorie-free (unless added sugar and cream are used) to drink and its energy-boosting effects make it a popular choice among adolescents. However, like other caffeinated beverages, coffee can also mess with hormones and metabolism. Studies have suggested that coffee drinkers are more likely to crave sugary and fatty foods, which can lead to poor nutrition choices if consumed in excess.
Moreover, sweeteners, cream and flavored syrups are commonly added to coffee drinks, making them even more calorie-dense and increasing the risk of weight gain in teens. For instance, a large cup of flavored latte can easily contain over 400 calories and almost a third of the recommended daily intake of added sugars — even without adding additional sweeteners.
Pregnant Women
The risks of drinking coffee for pregnant women is also well documented. Studies have shown that drinking more than two cups of coffee per day can increase the risk of miscarriage and preterm labor. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women should limit their daily caffeine intake and avoid coffee altogether, if possible.
Anyone with an underlying health condition such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes should also be careful about drinking coffee, as these conditions can be further exacerbated by caffeine.
Recommendations
Overall, caffeine in coffee can have both beneficial and detrimental effects. Therefore, it is important to take into account individual factors, such as age, health status and lifestyle. For instance, adolescents and pregnant women should avoid or limit coffee consumption, while individuals 18 and older can enjoy coffee in moderation.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that teens aged 14 and under should abstain from drinking coffee. However, it is important to note that occasional or occasional amounts of caffeine may not have any negative effects. Therefore, it is important for parents to talk with their teenage children about the risks associated with drinking coffee, and to ensure that any coffee drinking is done in moderation.
Studies
A variety of studies have been conducted on the relationship between coffee and health. Most of these studies have focused on adults, and therefore it is difficult to draw conclusions about the effects of coffee on adolescents in particular.
However, some studies have suggested that regular coffee consumption in teens is associated with diminished physical growth and delayed puberty, as well as increased risk of addiction and behavioral changes. Another study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that adolescents who separate coffee drinking from eating are more likely to have higher rates of obesity and poor nutrition profiles.
Coffee Alternatives
Fortunately, there are several alternatives to coffee that can provide the same energy-boosting effects without the risks associated with coffee. For instance, herbal and energy teas, such as yerba mate and guayusa, are stimulants that can provide the same mental boost of coffee without the same risks.
In addition, many plant-based beverages such as green tea, oat milk and almond milk contain natural energizing ingredients that can provide sustained, long-term energy without the adverse side effects of coffee. Finally, drinking plenty of water throughout the day can also increase energy levels and help prevent dehydration.
Summary
This article has taken an in-depth look at the potential risks of coffee for adolescents. Even though many experts believe that caffeine in moderation is safe for adults, the effects of coffee on 14 year olds are less well known. Studies suggest that regular caffeine consumption can interfere with growth and development, as well as increase the risk of addiction, obesity and poor nutrition.
For these reasons, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that teens should abstain from coffee drinking, while adults can enjoy coffee in moderation. Fortunately, there are a variety of alternatives to coffee that can provide the same energy-boosting effects without the negative health consequences.
