Caffeine
Most coffee drinks contain caffeine, which is a naturally-occurring stimulant. Caffeine can improve concentration, reactiveness, and alertness. Children’s bodies respond differently to caffeine than adults, with developing bodies and minds being far more sensitive.
Unregulated amounts of caffeine and coffee can pose serious health risks to a 9-year-old’s health. Ingesting too much caffeine as a child can create a dependency, and can cause serious physical and psychological side effects, such as insomnia, headaches, anxiety and restlessness. In extreme cases, excessive amounts of caffeine can lead to hallucinations and cardiac arrest.
Young Patients
Physicians regard children under the age of twelve to be particularly sensitive to the effects of caffeine. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) discourages caffeine consumption and cautions that children and adolescents should be kept away from caffeine as much as possible. Jonathan Olsen, MD, a pediatrician at the Seattle Children’s Hospital noted that “nine-year-olds are typically not mature enough to regulate the safe use of caffeine”, since they may be unaware of the risks associated with excessive intake.
Failing to restrict a 9-year-old’s access to caffeinated beverages, can put the child’s health and safety at serious risk. Furthermore, pediatricians warn that the effects of caffeine can be especially harmful for children who are physically active and whose diets lack a nutritious balance.
Caffeine Intake
The AAP does not have a specific recommendation for safe amounts of caffeine for children. However, Olsen notes that a “safe amount takes into account the child’s age, weight, and overall health.”
Depending on the child’s age and size, 45 to 85 mg of caffeine may be a safe amount to consume on a daily basis. Many commonly consumed beverages, such as energy drinks, coffee and tea can exceed these limits. For instance, an 8-ounce cup of coffee can contain around 95 mg of caffeine, while a 12-ounce cup of coffee can boast up to 180 mg of caffeine.
Healthy Alternatives
Various authors recommend alternative beverages as healthier options. Low-fat or fat-free milk and water are recommended as more nutritive options to replace caffeinated drinks.
Fruit juices, although high in sugar, can provide the body with essential vitamins. Additionally, some alternative beverages such as chamomile tea have a mild sedative effect, making them great for those who need a night time pick-me-up.
Education About Caffeine
It is important for parents to speak to their 9-year-old about the potential risks of consuming caffeine. Parents need to be clear that many caffeinated beverages are high in sugar and calories and can offer little or no nutritional value. Repeating this message can help a child internalize the risks of excessive caffeine.
Some parents opt to allow their children to drink caffeinated beverages in small doses, such as one soda a week. No matter the restrictions, it is important to monitor and track the intake of caffeinated beverages.
Effects of Caffeine Addiction
While not every child that drinks caffeinated beverages will develop a full-blown addiction, excessive consumption can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Youngsters may experience headaches, fatigue and mood disorders from popping too many energy drinks each day.
In extreme cases, teenagers may try to mask uncomfortable feelings with substances, when in fact the underlying problem could be an addiction to caffeine. This can cause low self-esteem and psychological issues that can be difficult to treat.
Monitoring Consumption
Parents need to ensure that their 9-year-old has access to healthy alternatives, such as water, fresh juices and low-fat or fat-free milk. Additionally, parents should pay close attention to the ingredients of the beverage and the sugar content. If the child is consuming sugary beverages or those with artificial sweeteners, this needs to be monitored and limited.
Parents should also educate their 9-year-old on the role of caffeine in beverages, and inform them of the risks associated with it. Encouraging a child to drink responsibly and in moderation can help prevent long-term consequences.
The Final Verdict
Given the potential risks related to caffeine and coffee, it is wise to avoid giving any to 9-year-olds. Monitoring their intake of sugary snacks and caffeinated beverages is key. If a 9-year-old does have access to coffee, it must be regulated and monitored. Parents should also educate their children on the risks associated with caffeine, and the need for moderation and responsible consumption.
