{"id":78754,"date":"2024-01-02T21:20:14","date_gmt":"2024-01-02T19:20:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.caffeinedude.com\/?p=78754"},"modified":"2024-01-02T21:20:14","modified_gmt":"2024-01-02T19:20:14","slug":"how-old-can-kids-drink-coffee","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.caffeinedude.com\/how-old-can-kids-drink-coffee\/","title":{"rendered":"How Old Can Kids Drink Coffee"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The subject of how old kids can drink coffee is complex, with many facts and opinions to consider. Coffee is not an essential food or drink for kids, yet it can have a profound impact on both their physical and mental health. This article will explore the science behind when kids can start drinking coffee, the risks associated with their consumption, their potential health benefits, and how parents should approach the topic of coffee drinking.<\/p>\n

Often, people start drinking coffee as a way to pep up their energy levels and focus. Coffee contains high levels of caffeine, which helps enhance energy levels, mental alertness, and performance, allowing people to feel more alert and energized. The available evidence shows that caffeine may not be beneficial for all kids, though, and that they should consult with their parents or healthcare providers first.<\/p>\n

Caffeine enters the body, passing through the stomach and small intestine, and into the liver’s bloodstream. From there, it travels throughout the body and to the brain, where it attaches to receptors and sparks activity. At the same time, it triggers the release of the hormones dopamine and adrenaline, giving users an acute “high.” The effects of caffeine can last up to five hours. In children, caffeine can have physical effects like increased heart rate, restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia, despite being milder than those in adults.<\/p>\n

Generally speaking, caffeinated drinks become an issue for children when their total caffeine intake exceeds the safe limits set by healthcare professionals. Consult your pediatrician to determine the right amount of caffeine for each child. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children between 4 and 12 should not have more than 85 milligrams (mg) of caffeine per day, while children 13 and older can consume up to two caffeine drinks a day.<\/p>\n