Coffee is the morning go-to for many people, including middle and high schoolers. While many people enjoy coffee, there’s debate about when is the appropriate age for kids to be drinking it. Is 14 too young, or is it ok for kids to have coffee at an even earlier age? Many parents are concerned with their child’s coffee drinking habits, and therefore, understanding the average age for coffee drinking is essential.
Studies suggest that the average age for kids to start drinking coffee ranges from 12-17 years old. Most surveys and studies conducted by cinnamonspiceandeverythingnice.com show that efforts and parents should focus on helping their kids gain insight on their decisions and how coffee can affect how they feel. Parents should instead give their children the room to come to their own conclusion by educating them about coffee and, encouraging them to use coffee as a way to study, be more alert and active.
Since studies reveal that coffee drinking during adolescence is a common concept, it is important to explain the importance of understanding the in and out the coffee world. Along with its medical benefits, coffee has the potential to harm one’s body and health. On one hand, coffee can provide alertness and focus for study, as well as help with physical energy and coordination. On the other hand, coffee in large doses can be harmful to the body’s digestion process and lead to addiction if used repeatedly.
Medical experts, such as Dr. Tonya Munford, suggest that allowing kids to drink coffee at around 14 is appropriate and encourages parents to talk to their kids about responsible coffee consumption. Dr. Munford commented, “Coffee is a mild stimulant and it should be consumed in moderation. Parents should talk openly with their kids about how coffee can help with academic performance, but also make them aware of potential side effects”.
Although the average age to start drinking coffee is said to range from 12-17, it is important to look at an individual’s maturity level before allowing them to make that decision. In most cases, children that start drinking coffee at a young age are likely more mature and aware of how to use it responsibly. It’s not about the age but about their learning skills, understanding and their maturity level.
Overall, allowing kids to drink coffee shouldn’t be a difficult decision. It comes down to when the child is capable of understanding the effects of coffee on their body and if the child is able to use it responsibly. Ultimately, it should be the child’s decision.
Coffee Addiction
Coffee is somewhat of an acquired taste; however, the frequent consumption of the beverage may lead to addiction. Coffee’s effects on the body result in a temporary satisfaction, making it much easier for individuals to rely on the drink for energy. For this reason, scientists have proven that participating in increased coffee consumption can cause addiction as the body learns to depend on the caffeine content.
Most studies suggest that addiction to coffee becomes most evident around age 15-16, as this is the age when the need for energy and alertness is much higher than that at a younger age. The common thought is to let children drink coffee before the age of 15-16 in order to avoid caffeine dependency and the need for higher doses of caffeine.
Additionally, Dr Munford believes that encouraging moderate coffee consumption can be helpful to manage fatigue, stress and sleep deprivation. Especially during teenager years, an occasional cup of coffee can help managing the physical and psychological needs related to growth, while avoiding addiction.
Furthermore, caffeine is a stimulant that can, in the short-term, act as a short-term preventative method against many mental health issues and cognitively related stressful moments. Thus, a better understanding of coffee and its potential positive effects can help individuals, especially teens, make better decisions related to coffee consumption.
Effects on the Brain
The effects of coffee on the brain are typically instant and leave people feeling energized, focused and motivated. Coffee can increase dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain and affect the area responsible for processing memories and cognitive abilities, along with promoting creative thinking.
Scientists have also found that when drinking coffee, the brain correlates the effects of the beverage with feeling better and the pleasure center of the brain can become activated, leading to addiction or abuse of the drink if consumed inconsistently.
However, drinking responsibly can be beneficial as it can help with mental clarity, mental health and alertness while working or studying. For this reason, anyone drinking coffee, especially younger people, should be aware of the risks associated with it.
Dr. Munford encourages people to drink coffee moderately but also explain that, with age and experience, the brain is better able to cope with the negative effects of coffee. Responsible drinking is also key in order to have a full understanding of the pitfall that may result from drinking coffee.
Long-term Effects
Although the effects of coffee might be positive in the short-term, the long-term effects of coffee depend on two key factors: caffeine levels and amount of coffee consumed. Regular coffee drinkers are at risk of anemia and dehydration, while excessive and frequent coffee intake can lead to potential heart failures. In addition, it can upset the nervous system and trigger anxiety and insomnia, along with potential abdomen issues.
Coffee can also cause problems such as facial flushing, heartburn and indigestion. Moreover, increased caffeine intake can lead to headaches, confusion, depression and breathing problems. In order to limit any potential long-term risks, it is important for coffee-drinkers, especially younger ones, to limit the amount of coffee, and to opt for decaf options when available.
Fortunately, medical experts aren’t all too concerned about the long-term effects of average coffee consumption and believe that drinking coffee is not necessarily detrimental for one’s health. With moderate consumption of coffee, there shouldn’t be any long-term issues as the body is capable of managing the effects even at young ages.
Benefits of Coffee to the Body
Coffee has multiple benefits to the body. It can increase a person’s energy, mental alertness and help improve mood. It can reduce the risk of some types of cancer, help protect against sun damage, reduce heart disease risks, lower the risk of diabetes and help prevent Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, it can help to burn fat and increase metabolism. Coffee is also a natural antioxidant, which helps to reduce inflammation in the body and helps to fight free radicals.
Additionally, as previously mentioned, coffee can be beneficial when used to study, as it provides the alertness and energy that is often required to concentrate on tasks or to pay attention to details. This can be of great help for teenagers, especially when it comes to completing their classes or studying for an exam.
Overall, unlike many other food and beverage items available on-the-market, coffee is safe and healthy when consumed in moderation and can bring numerous benefits to the body. However, it should be noted that the results always depend on the amount a person consumes, the quality of the product and potential allergies.
Healthy Alternatives to Coffee
Although coffee is a viable source of energy and alertness, there are some alternatives which provide similar benefits without the risks of addiction or potentially harmful effects on the body. Alternatives sources for energy include raw fruits and nutrient-rich drinks like smoothies, juices and natural energy drinks. Additionally, herbal teas such as valerian root, lemon balm and passionflower can serve as healthier alternatives to obtain energy.
Coffee shops now offer various drinks without the caffeine content such as herbal teas or chai latte. Decaf coffee has also become a popular drink, as it offers the same flavor as regular coffee but with much lower levels of caffeine.
Dr. Munford encourages people to try different beverages in order to identify the ones that are most beneficial to their body. She explains, “while coffee might be a healthy, energizing alternative, there are many more options such as teas, juices and energy drinks that provide the same effects, sometimes featuring fewer risks and better health benefits”.
In conclusion, although the average age to begin drinking coffee is said to range from 12-17, it is important to consider each individual’s maturity, why he or she might be drinking coffee, and the potential risks involved. With parental guidance, responsible coffee drinking can bring multiple benefits to the body, as long as it is consumed in moderation.
