Healthy Kids: Caffeine Consumption

Published:
Adolescents drink to much caffeine:
  • 83.2% of teens regularly consume caffeine.
  • 96% of teens occasionally consume caffeine.
  • 1% of caffeine comes from energy drinks.
  • Coffee is the biggest culprit!
  • Hidden caffeine: tea, iced tea, soda.
How much caffeine is safe?
  • Adults:  400 mg of caffeine per day is safe for adults.
  • Equals:  4 cups of coffee, 10 cans of cola,  2 energy shot drinks
  • Heavy Use: 500-600 mg a  day
  • Moderate Use: 100-400 mg can cause symptoms in children and adolescents.
Side effects of heavy caffeine usage:
  • Nervousness
  • Anxiety
  • Jitteriness
  • Sleep problems
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances
  • Tremors
  • Increased heart rate
  • Even death
Results:
  • 44.6% drank caffeinated beverages 1-6 x/week.
  • 11.4% consumed caffeine daily.
  • 4.8% never consumed caffeine.
  • Reason for consuming:  stay alert!
  • Parent role model was an important factor.
  • Media and social norms played a role.
  • Awareness of negative health issues with caffeine.
Recommendations:
  • Maximum of 100 mg a day for adolescents.
  • No caffeine for younger children.
  • More research is needed.
  • Education re: caffeine overconsumption and intoxication.
  • Educate on ways to boost energy – healthy diet and adequate sleep.

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