Coffee is one of the oldest drinks in existence, and its popularity continues to increase — especially among young people. Teenagers are increasingly indulging in cups of coffee, from instant coffee to the latest espresso machine. It’s understandable why teenagers would be interested in the caffeine buzz, but does it come with risks?
It is important for parents and guardians to know that according to Health Canada, there is no definitive answer as to when it is ‘safe’ for a teenager to drink coffee. However, according to various health and nutrition organizations, there is an agreed-upon upper limit: no more than 2.5 cups of coffee per day should be consumed by teenagers.
In addition to examining the amount of coffee a teenager should drink, it is also important to ask questions about its quality. Poor-quality coffee is loaded with artificial flavors and other unhealthy additives that can have an adverse effect on one’s health.
There is no solid evidence suggesting that moderate caffeine intake can have long-term negative effects on teenagers, however, nutritionists suggest that teenagers should avoid energy drinks which contain high levels of sugar and other artificial substances. Research has shown that high sugar intake has a negative effect on adolescents’ cognitive abilities, their physical health, and their energy levels.
Whilst there are undoubtedly benefits to drinking coffee, it’s important to remember that it is loaded with caffeine, a drug which affects the central nervous system. It can result in jitters, poor concentration, and irritability. As with any other drug, everyone reacts differently to it, so it’s important to monitor how a teenager feels after consuming coffee.
Another thing to be aware of is that drinking coffee after 5 PM can cause sleeping difficulties. It is better for teenagers to stay away from coffee in the later hours of the day, especially since it can take up to 6 hours for the body to fully digest caffeine.
Above all, if parents are going to allow their teenager to drink coffee, moderation is key. The recommendation is to keep consumption to a minimum of 2 cups of coffee per day, making sure that the coffee consumed is of good quality, and choosing appropriate times to drink it.
The Benefits of Coffee
Contrary to what some may think, coffee can have a positive impact on teenagers. It can act as an energizer and a mood enhancer when taken in moderation, and it can help to improve cognitive functions.
A study conducted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that coffee could potentially aid with teenagers’ alertness when taken in the late afternoon, supplementing for any lack of energy. Meanwhile, research shows that coffee drinkers suffer from lower levels of depression compared to those who do not drink coffee. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of coffee can be beneficial for the teenage body, as it helps to reduce the risk of some chronic conditions.
Coffee may have a positive effect on physical performance. A study conducted at the University of Brussels concluded that coffee could increase performance in exercises, with an increase in strength and endurance observed among the participants. It is, however, important to note that the study was carried out on a small sample size.
Though coffee has numerous potential benefits, it’s important to remember that it is still a stimulant and can be detrimental if consumed in large quantities. Therefore, parents should also be aware of the potential downsides of coffee consumption.
The Downsides of Coffee
Though small amounts of caffeine consumption should not have any adverse effects, excessive consumption can lead to a variety of health issues. Caffeine can cause deleterious health effects like headaches, anxiety, and unease. It can also result in nausea and irritability, as well as difficulty concentrating.
A study conducted at the Harvard School of Public showed that daily caffeine consumption could add stress to teenagers’ lives and lead to an increased risk of heart disease. That same study also linked caffeinated drinks to higher levels of cholesterol, which could explain why teenagers who consumed high amounts of caffeine were three times more at risk of suffering a heart attack than those who drank very little or none at all.
In addition, caffeine can interfere with sleep. It is thought to be a diuretic, causing dehydration which might lead to problems such as headaches, dry skin, and fatigue. There’s a higher risk of experiencing these symptoms when drinking coffee in the evening as the body needs to detoxify for the next waking hours.
Overall, whilst there are benefits to consuming coffee, it should be done with moderation and caution in order for the teenager not to inflict any damage on their health.
Alternatives To Coffee
Fortunately, there are healthy alternatives to coffee that can be just as effective if not more. Herbal teas are a good option as they contain few calories and no caffeine. In addition, some of them have medicinal properties which could aid recovery or health, depending on the type chosen. Turmeric tea is a good example of this, as it can reduce inflammation and provide antioxidants.
Chocolate milk is also a great option for teenagers, as it can increase energy levels, improve concentration, and hydrate the body. As an added bonus, it contains a good amount of calcium, which is beneficial for bone health. Additionally, other healthier options like green tea and smoothies can be consumed.
Adolescence is already a difficult phase, and drinking something that can cause harm to one’s health can add to the difficulties of this stage in life. Therefore, it’s important for teenagers to know the potential risks of drinking coffee, as well as the potential alternatives.
Parental Supervision
When it comes to children, the responsibility for their health lies with their parents. Therefore, when allowing teenagers to drink coffee, parental supervision and guidance is key. They should be monitored, and reminded to keep the amount consumed to the recommended limit. Parents should also ensure that the coffee consumed is of good quality.
Parents should also ensure that they’re up-to-date on the latest research and findings surrounding this topic, as well as informing their children on the same. It is equally important that parents discuss any questions or concerns regarding caffeine with their children, as this will help them to understand the risks involved.
All in all, it is vital that parents keep a close eye on the coffee their teenagers are drinking, the times it’s consumed and the number of cups per day. Whilst the occasional cup of coffee is fine, it is important to remember that it can be harmful if not consumed in moderation.
Conclusion
Coffee is an ever-popular drink that is enjoyed by millions of people all over the world, and is increasingly popular among teenagers. Whilst there are potential benefits, there are also potential risks associated with its consumption. And since teenagers are still in the development stage, it’s important to ensure that any coffee consumption is done with parental supervision and moderation.
