{"id":78045,"date":"2024-01-30T03:14:02","date_gmt":"2024-01-30T01:14:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.caffeinedude.com\/?p=78045"},"modified":"2024-01-30T03:14:02","modified_gmt":"2024-01-30T01:14:02","slug":"how-old-can-drink-coffee","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.caffeinedude.com\/how-old-can-drink-coffee\/","title":{"rendered":"How Old Can Drink Coffee"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Is There an Age Limit on Coffee?<\/h2>\n

The rich flavor and warm boldness of coffee can serve as a great accent to a morning meal, or means of an afternoon pick-me-up. Depending on whom you ask though, it might be recommended for adults only. The idea that coffee is only for adults is a widely accepted belief, but is it really the case?
\nThe scientific evidence to support this widely accepted idea is inconclusive. A few studies have raised some potential issues related to caffeine consumption in children, such as increase in heart rate and disruption in sleeping patterns. However, research involving large populations of children has concluded that young children who drink caffeine up to 2.7 mg\/kg body weight daily do not have any long-term health effects. Furthermore, a 2018 study conducted by the European Food Safety Authority showed that coffee can help children aged between four and six years to establish healthy dietary habits.
\nThe issue of coffee consumption among children might be more of a moral or ethical one than a pure health one. What is acceptable or ‘normal’ with regards to coffee consumption differs from culture to culture. In some countries, drinking coffee is widely accepted from childhood. In other countries, coffee consumption is seen as an indication of adulthood.
\nIn the United States, some experts recommend that parents should not let their children drink more than one cup of coffee a day. The American Academy of Pediatrics has classified caffeine consumption among children as moderate. They suggest that moderate consumption (85-100 mg\/day) has no long-term health effects.
\nThe advice offered by experts can seem somewhat conflicting and subjective. There is no clear consensus on when is the best age to start drinking coffee, or how much coffee is safe to drink. Experts tend to agree, however, that age is not the primary consideration, but rather the amount of coffee consumed that determines its effects.
\nSo, what is the recommendation on how much coffee a child can consume? There is no one answer that is suitable for every child. Parents should look for guidance from their child’s pediatrician, and avoid giving large amounts of coffee. <\/p>\n

Caffeine and Its Effects on Health<\/h2>\n

The effects of caffeine can vary among people and depend on many factors, such as the person’s age, weight and medical condition. Generally, caffeine is known to trigger the release of adrenaline, which can cause physical and mental exertion, insomnia, and irregular heartbeats. It can also affect cognitive functions such as memory and concentration.
\nOn the other hand, caffeine can offer some benefits, such as increased alertness, improved performance of physical and cognitive tasks, increased motivation, and prevention of some diseases. Caffeine has also been found to reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
\nIn any case, it is important to remember that caffeine is a drug, and like any drug, it can be misused. The long-term consequences of misusing caffeine may include addiction, restlessness, and temporary spikes in heart rate and blood pressure.<\/p>\n

Coffee and Its Effects on the Developing Brain <\/h2>\n

Studies into the effects of caffeine on the developing brain have been inconclusive. A 2008 review of 8 studies concluded that caffeine intake at a ‘normal’ level was not associated with cognitive function impairment among children.
\nHowever, a 2020 Pediatrics study suggested that children who consumed caffeine in large amounts experienced poorer academic performance, as well as lower self-image and self-worth.
\nIt is also important to keep in mind that caffeine is absorbed differently in children than in adults, and that caffeine can have delayed or hidden effects on young minds. For instance, drinking coffee or other caffeinated drinks may cause children to stay up late, resulting in sleep disruptions and mood disturbances.<\/p>\n

Practical Steps for Parents <\/h2>\n

Although the risks of caffeine consumption in children appear to be low, parents should consider the following measures to ensure their child’s safety: <\/p>\n