Caffeine and Kids

Caffeine and Kids

The toxic effects of caffeine for adults have long been documented – increased anxiety, disrupted sleep, insomnia, palpitations, increased risk of osteoporosis – the list goes on and on. But the information regarding caffeine intake and children remains a little sketchy. It’s suggested that a high intake of caffeine for children could include a range of symptoms from bed wetting to behavioural problems and, of course, sleep issues, but clinical evidence is hard to find.

An alarming new survey conducted by researchers from the University of Nebraska showing that children as young as five are consuming excessive amounts of caffeine.

Nutritional Therapists are likely to agree that the diets of children this age should be completely free from caffeine but it seems that soft drinks containing caffeine are the main culprits for this increase.

228 parents reported that their surveyed 5- to 7-year old children drank approximately 52mg of caffeine daily and their 8- to 12-year old children drank 109mg daily. The survey also linked increased caffeine consumption with reduced hours of sleep.